Marketing Your Sports Bar: 4 Key Tips
In most cities, there are numerous sports bars. So, if you want to open another one and run it successfully, you'll have to find a way to set it apart. Here are some marketing tips to help you get your name out there and more customers in the door.
Play more than one sport.
You might dream of running a basketball bar or a football bar. But realistically, it can be hard to support a sports bar with the fans of one sport, only. You can make one sport your feature and play that sport predominantly during busy hours, but you'll do best if you round it out with other sports to draw in more diverse customers. Advertise and make it clear when certain sports will be on. For instance, you may want to make it a habit to always play soccer on Tuesdays and tennis on Thursday afternoons.
Offer some unique dishes.
You can't really run a sports bar without burgers, fries, pizza, and other classic fares. However, these classics should not be the only items on your menu. If you have a few dishes that customers just can't get anywhere else, this will encourage customers to choose your sports bar over others in the area. Your "special" items could be burgers made with unusual meats, such as bison or ostrich. Or, you could make wood-fired pizzas, gourmet macaroni and cheese, or fries with a variety of seasonings.
Rent out a space for parties.
If your restaurant layout allows for it, dedicate a room to private rentals. You can let guests rent it out for private parties, which they may do for birthdays and other occasions, or even just for the "big game." Many guests who rent out your private room will come back, another time, for a regular meal. People who they invite to their party may become your regulars, too, once they discover the space.
Offer affordable beer.
Beer is a staple at sports bars. There are some customers who simply choose the sports bar with the cheapest beer. Don't mark your higher-end craft beers down so low that you're not making a profit. Do, however, include a really cheap beer or two on your menu. This will bring in the customers looking for a bargain.
Running a sports bar can be a competitive endeavor, but with the marketing tips above, you can compete. Be willing to adjust and make changes over time.
