Bar Franchise Opportunities

A guide to bar franchises

Bar franchises give you a route into the late-night and leisure trade with the support of a proven brand. They sit apart from traditional pub franchises: the focus is on the night out itself, from cocktail and shots bars to themed venues and mobile bars that bring the bar to private parties and events.

Types of bar franchise

• Cocktail and shots bars — venues built around a signature drinks menu and a strong brand identity, usually in town and city-centre nightlife areas.
• Themed and experience bars — concepts where the setting, games or entertainment are as much of the draw as the drinks.
• Mobile and event bars — bars run from a trailer, van or pop-up unit and hired out for weddings, festivals and corporate events, often with lower set-up costs than a fixed venue.

Is a bar franchise right for you?

A bar franchise suits people who enjoy hospitality, are comfortable working evenings and weekends, and like leading a team. Fixed venues bring premises, staffing and licensing responsibilities, while mobile bar models trade some of that for travel and event bookings. Look carefully at the territory on offer, the training and launch support, the supply arrangements and how the brand helps you win customers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a bar franchise and a pub franchise?
Pub franchises are usually built around a traditional local pub, often tied to a brewer. Bar franchises focus on a particular nightlife concept, such as cocktails, shots or a themed experience. See our Bar & Pub Franchises category for pub opportunities.

Will I need a licence to run a bar franchise?
Selling alcohol in England and Wales normally needs a premises licence for the venue and a personal licence for the designated premises supervisor, under the Licensing Act 2003. Mobile bars at events may use a temporary event notice instead. Your franchisor should guide you through what applies to your model.

Do I need hospitality experience?
Not always. Many franchisors train new franchisees in operations, licensing, staff management and stock control, although bar or hospitality experience is a clear advantage for venue-based concepts.