15 Tips and Tricks to help you run a bar next to a busy college campus

Running a bar next to a busy college campus can be a rewarding and lucrative venture, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. With a constant stream of students looking for a place to grab a drink and socialize, it's important to be well-prepared and stay ahead of the game. Here are 10 tips and tricks to help you run a successful bar next to a college campus:

1. Use delivery software for restaurants to streamline your operations. With so many orders coming in, it can be tough to keep track of everything manually. 

By using delivery software, you can easily manage orders, track inventory, and communicate with your staff in real-time.

2. Offer a wide selection of drinks and snacks. College students have diverse tastes and preferences, so it's important to have a menu that caters to a wide range of palates. In addition to traditional bar fare like beer and wings, consider offering craft cocktails, non-alcoholic options, and healthier snack options.

3. Promote your business through social media. With most college students being active on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, it's a great way to get the word out about your bar. Use these platforms to share updates, specials, and events, and consider running targeted ads to reach a specific audience.

4. Host events and specials to draw in a crowd. Whether it's a weekly trivia night or a monthly themed event, offering something special can help to attract a regular clientele. Consider partnering with local businesses or organizations to co-promote events and bring in new customers.

5. Use your location to your advantage. Being located near a college campus means you have a built-in customer base, so make sure to take advantage of it. Consider offering a shuttle service or discounts for students with valid IDs to encourage them to visit your bar.

6. Create a welcoming atmosphere. With so many options available, it's important to create a space that students will want to come back to. Consider investing in comfortable seating, games, and other amenities to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

7. Train your staff to handle busy nights. With a constant stream of customers, it's important to have a staff that can handle the pressure. Make sure your staff is well-trained and has the tools and resources they need to provide top-notch service, even on the busiest nights.

8. Offer delivery or takeout options. With the rise of food delivery apps, it's important to consider offering delivery or takeout options for customers who don't want to stay on-premises. By partnering with a delivery aggregator or using delivery software for restaurants, you can easily manage these orders and expand your customer base.

9. Be proactive about safety. With alcohol being served, it's important to take steps to ensure the safety of your customers. Consider implementing a strict ID check policy, providing designated drivers or alternative transportation options, and training your staff to recognize and address potential issues.

10. Don't forget about non-alcoholic options. While alcohol is a key component of a bar, it's important to remember that not all customers will be drinking. Make sure to offer a selection of non-alcoholic options, including mocktails, sodas, and other beverages, to ensure there's something for everyone.

11. Be prepared for the academic calendar. As a college bar, you'll need to be prepared for fluctuations in business based on the academic calendar. Expect business to be slower during breaks and holidays, and busier during the school year.

12. Consider offering discounts or promotions for students. College students are often on a tight budget, so offering discounts or promotions can be a great way to attract business. Consider offering discounted drinks or food during certain hours, or running promotions through social media or email.

13. Stay up-to-date with local laws and regulations. It's important to be aware of and comply with all local laws and regulations, including those related to serving alcohol to minors and managing noise levels. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these regulations and train your staff to follow them.

14. Don't forget about online reviews. With so many college students being active online, it's important to pay attention to online reviews of your bar. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews, and be proactive about addressing any negative feedback.

15. Foster a sense of community. College students are often looking for a place to socialize and connect with others, so consider creating a sense of community at your bar. This could involve hosting events, sponsoring local organizations, or simply creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

By following these tips and tricks and using delivery software for restaurants to streamline your operations, you can successfully run a bar next to a busy college campus and provide an enjoyable experience for your customers. Whether you're just starting out or are an experienced bar owner, these strategies can help you build a loyal customer base and keep your business running smoothly.