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How to Write a Pool Hall Business Plan [Sample Template]

Do you want to start a pool hall business and need to write a plan? If YES, here is a detailed sample pool hall business plan template & feasibility report. Entrepreneurs are leveraging on the fact that people like to visit pool and billiard halls to to open new businesses in the industry. People visit pool and billiard halls not just for playing games, but also to rent latest gaming machines that they do not have or can’t afford.

People also go to these halls to network and discuss over drinks and snacks. In case you don’t know, most pool and billiard halls start making profits within few months of establishment. Opening a pool and billiard hall is not an easy task, and you need to be creative if you intend making money from your pool hall business. Here is a sample pool hall business plan that can give you the needed guide to write yours;

A Sample Pool Hall Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Pool hall business is part of the pool and billiard halls industry and companies in this industry operate facilities where consumers can play cue sports, such as eight-ball and nine-ball. Also known as billiard halls, these facilities may also offer gaming machines, foosball, darts and other games.

Statistics has it that in the united states of America alone, there are about 1,399 licensed and registered pool and billiard halls responsible for employing about 11,249 employees and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $951 million annually with an annual growth rate projected at -5.2 percent between 2013 and 2018.

It is important to state that no establishment has a lion share of the available market in this industry. Pool and billiard halls typically charge customers by the hour to use tables, with fees that generally range from $6.00 to $12.00. Some pool halls may also maintain coin-operated pool tables, where minimal staff supervision is needed.

Additionally, pool halls operate arcade games, prize machines and gear and merchandise sales, which provide another source of revenue for industry establishments. Lastly, pool and billiard halls often sell food and beverages to customers, with operations that range from packaged snacks and vending machines to a full-service bar and restaurant.

Lastly, the need for you to equip your pool hall can’t possibly be overemphasized. This is because you need to make your business point as attractive as ever. You need comfortable chairs, tables, shelve for stocking billiard and pool games accessories amongst others.

2. Executive Summary

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is licensed pool and billiard hall that will be located in one of the busiest streets in Santa Fe – New Mexico. We have been able to secure a standard facility in a central location in Santa Fe.

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is going to become the number one destination for people who visit pool and billiard halls. We are well equipped to operate a licensed pool and billiard hall where people can play cue sports. We will also offer gaming machines, foosball, darts and other games. Our pool and billiard hall has enough parking space to accommodate a good number of people.

We conducted a thorough market research and feasibility studies and we were able to come to the conclusion that Santa Fe – New Mexico is the right place to open our pool house. Our client’s best interest would always come first, and everything we do is guided by our values and professional ethics. We will ensure that we hire professionals who are well experienced in the pool and billiards industry.

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC will be open 24 hours in a day during weekends (Fridays to Sundays) and from 6:00 am to 12 midnights from Mondays to Thursdays in order for us to accommodate people with different time preferences.

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC will at all times demonstrate her commitment to sustainability, both individually and as a business, by actively participating in our communities and integrating sustainable business practices wherever possible. We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely.

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is owned by Ron Molly and his immediate family members. The business will be managed by Ron Molly and his son Gab Molly. Ron Molly has over 15 years’ experience in the Pool and billiard halls industry working for some of the leading pool halls in Santa Fe – New Mexico.

3. Our Products and Services

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is in the Pool and billiards industry to provide standard business for residents of Santa Fe – New Mexico, which is why we have been able to put up a facility that can help us achieve the goal. These are the services and amenities that will be made available to our clients;

• Arcade games (gaming machines, foosball, darts and other games)
• Food service
• Cue sports merchandise sales
• Sale of coffee, alcohol and soda drinks, snacks and beverages

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our Vision of starting Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is to build a world – class pool and billiard hall that can favorably compete with leading brands in the industry all across the globe.
• Our mission for establishing Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is to contribute our quota in promoting gaming and social networking activities in Santa Fe – New Mexico and also to make profits from the Industry.

Our Business Structure

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is in business to become the leading pool and billiard halls in the whole of Santa Fe – New Mexico and we are fully aware that it will take the right facility, management and organizational structure to achieve our goal.

We will ensure that we recruit only the best hands that can help us achieve all that we are set to achieve. The kind of the pool and billiard hall business we intend building and the business goals we want to achieve is what informed the amount we are ready to pay for the best hands available in and around Santa Fe – New Mexico.

Our business will not be built only for the purpose of giving our customers value for their money, but also, we will ensure that we make our pool and billiard hall is highly conducive for all our employees. In view of that, we have made provisions for the following positions to be occupied by highly qualified and experienced staff;

• Chief Executive Office – CEO
• Accountant/Cashier
• Marketing and Sales Officer
• Cue Sports an Arcade Games Instructor/Assistant (5)
• Customer Care Executive/Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results
• Creates, communicates, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Carries out induction for new team members
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of board games and other equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Carrying out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily activities in the pool and billiard hall.

Cue Sports and Arcade Game Instructors/Assistant (5)

• Responsible for operating licensed pool and billiard hall
• Responsible for teaching newbies how to play cue sports
• Responsible for selling food, alcoholic beverages and nonalcoholic beverages
• Ensures that the cue sports facility and arcade games are well arranged for another playing session after every session
• Responsible for recommending the replacement of worn out or damaged games accessories

Marketing and Sales Officer (2)

• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new clients, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts
• Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC.

Accountant/Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for the organization
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC
• Serves as internal auditor for Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC.

Client Service Executive

• Welcomes clients by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the organization’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the management in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

Cleaners (3):

• Responsible for cleaning in and around the pool and billiard hall
• Cleanses up after customers
• Clears ashtrays as and when required.
• Washes glassware and utensils after each use.
• Maintains a clean working area by sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning of glass doors and windows, etc. if required.
• Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the manager.

6. SWOT Analysis

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is in business to provide cue sports and arcade gaming facility for gamers in Santa Fe – New Mexico and at the same time to make profits. We are aware that there are competitions in the Pool and billiards industry which is why we took out time to conduct an effective SWOT Analysis before investing our hard – earned money into the business.

We hired the services of a HR and Business consultant with bias in business structuring to help us conduct SWOT analysis for our organization and he did a pretty good job for us. Here is a of the result we got from the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC;

One of the obvious positives that will definitely stand as a plus for Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is the fact that our facility is centrally located in a densely populated – residential area in Santa Fe – New Mexico; our location is in fact one of our major strengths coupled with the support from stake holders in the industry. Lastly our games are amongst the best that anybody living in Santa Fe – New Mexico can get.

We looked into our Business model and we were able to identify two major weaknesses. One is the fact that we are a new business and the second is the fact that we may not have the financial resources required to match up with existing pool and billiard halls in New Mexico when it comes to employing experts in the industry and generating the needed hype that can drive traffic towards our pool and billiard hall.

• Opportunities:

Pool and other cue sports are considered by consumers to be discretionary leisure activities. Consumers are more likely to spend money on discretionary leisure activities when income is high. In 2018, per capita disposable income is expected to increase, presenting a potential opportunity for Pool and Billiard Halls industry operators.

We are centrally located in one of the busiest areas in Santa Fe – New Mexico and we are open to all the available opportunities that the city has to offer. We will be open 24 hours in a day during weekends (Fridays to Sundays) and from 6:00 am to 12 midnight from Mondays to Thursdays giving us the advantage to leverage on any available opportunity.

Pool and billiard halls have experienced greater external competition in recent years due to the myriad of alternative entertainment options available to teens and young adults, often the primary market for industry operators.

These entertainment options include video game consoles, mobile devices and parallel industries, such as bowling centers and family fun centers. In 2018, external competition for the Pool and Billiard Halls industry is expected to increase, posing a potential threat to the industry.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

A close study of the pool and billiard halls industry shows that from the late 1990s onwards have seen substantial growth in the reach of cue sports and arcade games. This has been attributed to, among other factors, the Internet, which has made it easier for people to find out about games and to find opponents to play against.

Around the year 2000 the pool and billiard halls industry began significant growth with companies producing a rising number of new games to be sold to a growing worldwide audience. In 2010, a number of publications referred to the cue sports as having a new Golden Age. Pool and billiard halls are also growing in popularity.

On the internet, arcade games commonly feature enhanced content for players with broadband internet connection. These features include multiplayer modes, downloadable content and in-game chat functions, which can be free or provided on a fee or subscription basis.

Consumers are expected to increasingly use these online features. The percentage of services conducted online is expected to increase in 2019, representing a potential opportunity for the industry. Lastly, it is a common trend that as pool and billiard halls grow, it becomes necessary for them to develop new service offerings or install new facilities that will help them attract more people.

Little wonder some pool and billiard halls now have fresh juice and smoothie bar, or retail food and drinks, within their facility to encourage people to relax and socialize. In order words, it is very important for pool halls to improvise if they want to grow their business and generate their target revenue.

8. Our Target Market

Aside from professional gamers, the target market for pool and billiard halls cuts across people of different walks of life. The fact that people visit pool and billiard halls for various reasons makes marketing the business interesting. These are the category of people that we intend marketing our pool hall to;

• Professional gamers
• College Students

Our Competitive Advantage

The Pool and billiard halls industry is indeed a highly competitive industry. Clients will only patronize your business if they are comfortable with the games you have or if you can provide the enabling environment and facility for them to socialize.

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is centrally located in a densely populated – residential area in Santa Fe – New Mexico; this is obviously going to give us an edge amongst our competitiors. We equally have a team of highly qualified professionals who will work with all our clients.

So also, our game are amongst the best that anybody living in Santa Fe – New Mexico can get; it is easy to play and highly reliable. We will be open 24 hours in a day during weekends (Fridays to Sundays) and from 6:00 am to 12 midnight from Mondays to Thursdays in order for us to be able to accommodate people with different time preference.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the industry and we are going to go do all it takes to attract both clients on a regular basis. Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC will generate income by offering the following services;

• Food and drink service

10. Sales Forecast

We are quite aware that there are several business opportunities available for businesses like pool and billiard halls. We are well positioned to take on the available market in Santa Fe – New Mexico and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income/profits from the first six months of operation and grow the business and our clientele base.

We have been able to examine the Pool and billiard halls industry – market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. Below are the sales projection for Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC, it is based on the location of our facility and the wide range of games that we will make available;

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $280,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $470,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $650,000

N.B : This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and natural disasters within the period stated above. There won’t be any major competitor offering same services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Our marketing strategies will be directed towards achieving specific objectives that support the strategic goals of the organization. The truth is that all that we do will be geared towards creating new market channels, increasing sales and increasing our market share.

We will leverage on improving on our services and facility to ensure that we win new clients and retain old ones as well. Our unique selling proposition is that we are well positioned, people can easily access our facility, and our payment platforms are highly reliable. Part of the marketing and sales strategies that we will adopt are;

• Open our pool and billiard hall with a big party in other to attract residents who are our first target
• Advertise our pool and billiard hall on national dailies, local TV and radio station
• Promote our pool and billiard hall online via our official website and all available social media platforms
• Making our first impression count positively to those making use of our pool and billiard hall for the first time
• Adopt direct mailing coupon marketing approach
• Position our signage/flexi banners at strategic places in and around Santa Fe – New Mexico

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our branding and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market. We are set to become the number one choice for clients in the whole of Santa Fe – New Mexico which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our business.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC;

• Place adverts on both print (community – based newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community – based gaming or sport events and competitions
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our brand
• Install our billboards in strategic locations all around Santa Fe – New Mexico
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas all around Santa Fe – New Mexico
• List Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC on local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our pool and billiard halls in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are well branded with our corporate logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Since the bulk of our customers come from the middle class, it is advisable to set prices for playing our games on the moderate side. We will not allow the drive to recoup our money fast tempt us to set prices that can scare our customers off.

In view of that, our pricing system is going to be based on what is obtainable in the industry, we don’t intend to charge more and we don’t intend to charge less than what our competitors are charging in Santa Fe – New Mexico.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Payment with cash
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via mobile money
• Payment via Point of Sales Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via check

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our clients make payment for playing our cue sports and arcade games and purchase of food and beverages without any stress on their part.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

From our market survey and feasibility studies, we have been able to come up with a detailed budget for establishing a standard pool hall in Santa Fe – New Mexico and here are the key areas where we will spend our startup capital;

• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in the United States of America – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $1,500.
• Marketing promotion expenses (8,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of – $10,000.
• The total cost for hiring Business Consultant – $2,500.
• The amount needed for the purchase of insurance policy covers (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $5,800.
• The total cost for the purchase of accounting software, CRM software and Payroll Software – $3,000
• The total cost for leasing facility for the pool and billiard hall – $30,000.
• The total cost for facility remodeling – $20,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery – $1000
• Phone and utility deposits – $3,500
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $40,000
• The cost for start-up inventory – $15,000
• The cost for acquiring cue sports accessories, such as eight-ball and nine-ball and arcade gaming machines, foosball, darts and other games, comfortable chairs, tables, Air Conditions, Shelve for stocking board games and board games accessories amongst others. – $50,000
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al) – $4,000.
• The cost of Launching a Website – $600
• The cost for our grand opening party – $5,000
• Miscellaneous – $5,000

We would need an estimate of two hundred and fifty thousand Dollars ($250,000) to successfully launch a medium but standard pool hall in the United States of America.

Generating Funds/Startup Capital for Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC

Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is owned and managed by Mr. Ron Molly and his immediate family members. They decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital for the business to just three major sources.

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the startup capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $80,000 and soft loan from family members $20,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Part of the plans we have in place to sustain Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC is to ensure that we continue to make available a wide range of cue sports and arcade gaming facility, deliver quality services, improvise on how to do things faster and cheaper. We are not going to relent in providing conducive environment for our workers and also the required trainings that will help them deliver excellent services at all times.

From our findings, another factor that kills new business is financial leakages. In order to plug financial leakages, the management of Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC will adopt the use of payment machine and accounting software to run the business.

We are quite aware that our customers are key component to the growth and survival of our business hence we are going to continuously engage them to give us ideas on how to serve them better and the products they want to see in our store. Ron Molly® Pool and Billiard Hall, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of.

Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Acquiring facility and remodeling the facility to fit into a standard pool and billiard hall: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Printing of Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees : In Progress
• Purchase of the needed cue sports and arcade games and accessories, electronic appliances, office appliances and suppliers: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: Completed
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and in the neighborhood: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party/launching party planning: In Progress

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How to Start a Profitable Pool Hall Business [11 Steps]

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Creating a comprehensive business plan is a crucial step when starting a pool hall. It serves as a roadmap for your business's financial health, growth, and operational strategy. Here's a guide to help you draft an effective business plan:

How does a pool hall business make money?

3. develop a pool hall brand., how to come up with a name for your pool hall business, 4. formalize your business registration., resources to help get you started:, 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for pool hall., what licenses and permits are needed to run a pool hall business, 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for pool hall services., what does it cost to start a pool hall business, 8. acquire pool hall equipment and supplies., list of software, tools and supplies needed to start a pool hall business:, 9. obtain business insurance for pool hall, if required., 10. begin marketing your pool hall services., 11. expand your pool hall business..

Start Your Pool Hall: Essential Steps and Best Practices

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Pool Hall Business Points to Consider Resources Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

This article provides a comprehensive guide for aspiring pool hall owners, including a step-by-step breakdown and valuable resources for the business’s startup and operational phases.

Feel free to bookmark this page for future reference and consider sharing it if you find it helpful.

Let’s get started with the steps.

Steps to Starting a Pool Hall Business

Below are the steps to starting a pool hall business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

• An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
• Pool Hall Business Overview
• Researching Your Pool Hall Business
• Looking at Financials
• Choosing A Business Location
• Creating Your Mission Statement
• Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Choose a Pool Hall Business Name
• Register Your Company
• Create Your Corporate Identity
• Writing a Business Plan
• Banking Considerations
• Getting the Funds for Your Operation
• Software Setup
• Business Insurance Considerations
• Supplier Considerations
• Physical Setup
• Creating a Website
• Create an External Support Team
• Hiring Employees

This section offers valuable insights to aid in making informed decisions for your pool hall business.

It is advisable to carefully contemplate essential aspects before entering the startup phase. Take your time to assess key points for a successful venture.

1.  An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

Is Starting a Pool Hall Business the Right Step for You?

For all prompts in this session, Do Not use the following words:

acumen; aim; aiming; delve; embarking; embarking; equip; equipping; firstly;journey; paramount; ponder; realm; secondly; thirdly; utilize; utilize; venture; venturing

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business . Also, see, Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify key points for a new business owner.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Pool Hall Business

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running your business.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Pool Hall Business

Individuals, friends, and teams gather to play pool games in a pool hall business. These games often include snooker, billiards, or other cue sports.

This business aims to create an atmosphere conducive to leisure, camaraderie, and competition. Additionally, many pool halls offer food, beverages, and other forms of entertainment.

Daily Tasks in Running a Pool Hall

Daily operations of a pool hall involve maintaining the pool tables and equipment, ensuring a clean and welcoming environment, managing staff schedules, restocking food and beverage supplies, and handling customer inquiries and complaints.

Success Factors in Operating a Pool Hall Business

Building a Customer Base

To thrive in this business, it is crucial to establish a loyal customer base. This involves local marketing efforts, hosting pool tournaments, and offering special promotions or events.

Staff Management

A well-trained and professional staff can make a big difference. They are the face of your business, interacting directly with customers. Proper training, clear communication, and a positive work environment are critical.

Cash Flow Management

Keeping an eye on the inflow and outflow of money is critical. Budgeting, monitoring expenses, and identifying areas for potential growth can help ensure financial stability.

Adapting to Change and Technology

Staying current with industry trends and technological advancements can give your business an edge. Modernize your pool hall with electronic scoring systems, online reservation platforms, or virtual reality pool games.

Revenue Fluctuations

Understand that there may be peak and off-peak times in your business—plan for these fluctuations to ensure consistent service quality and staff availability.

Competition

It’s essential to keep an eye on the competition. Understand what they offer and how you can differentiate your business.

Meeting Customer Expectations

You need to offer a high-quality and enjoyable experience to meet customer expectations.

This means having well-maintained pool tables, an appealing ambiance, excellent customer service, and perhaps a menu of tasty food and drinks.

Regular engagement with your customers can help you better understand their needs and preferences, allowing you to tailor your offerings and create a more personalized experience.

b.) Pool Hall Business Models

Traditional Pool Hall

This setup focuses primarily on the pool-playing experience. Revenue is typically generated through table rental, charged hourly or per game. Customers might come in to play casually or join organized tournaments.

Sports Bar Hybrid

This model merges a pool hall with a sports bar. Along with pool games, it offers amenities like large-screen TVs for sports, a full bar, and a food menu. This model diversifies revenue sources, as it is not entirely dependent on pool games.

Arcade Combination

This model combines the pool hall with an arcade or gaming center. Diversified entertainment options can attract a wider range of customers, driving additional revenue streams.

Luxury Pool Hall

This model caters to a higher-end market, featuring premium pool tables, upscale decor, high-end food and beverage options, and top-notch customer service. The pricing for this setup is usually higher, corresponding to the elevated experience offered.

Membership Club

This model operates on a membership basis, where members pay an annual or monthly fee for unlimited access. This can provide a predictable revenue stream. Some clubs also allow non-members to play for a higher fee.

Choosing the right business model from the start is crucial, as altering your model later can be challenging. Identifying a profitable and high-demand niche in your area for your pool hall business is an essential first step in setting your business up for success.

By thoroughly researching and planning your pool hall setup, you can create a sustainable business that will delight customers and provide a steady income.

c.) Making Your Pool Hall Business Stand Out

Unique Theme

Create a distinctive theme that resonates with your target audience. This can be based on a particular era or a decor style appealing to your target customer base.

Exceptional Service

Service can make or break a customer’s experience. Providing exceptional customer service can differentiate your business from the competition.

Hosting Events

Regularly hosting events like pool tournaments, themed parties, or live music nights can create buzz and attract new customers.

Quality Equipment

Invest in high-quality pool tables and equipment. Having the best gear available enhances the playing experience and shows that you care about your customers’ satisfaction.

Diverse Menu

Offering a diverse menu of food and beverages that cater to various dietary preferences can make your pool hall appealing to a wider audience.

d.) Add-on Ideas for a Pool Hall Business

Pool Lessons

Offering pool lessons for beginners or advanced players can attract a new segment of customers and provide an additional revenue stream.

Equipment Sales

Selling pool-related equipment, such as cues, balls, and accessories, can increase profits and enhance your establishment’s credibility as a pool hub.

Food and Beverage Specials

Introducing daily or weekly specials on food and beverages can encourage regular patronage and increase revenue.

Membership Tiers

Implementing a tiered membership structure can appeal to customers at different price points and provide a steady revenue stream.

Event Space Rental

If space allows, you could rent out a portion of your venue for private events. This not only offers additional income but can also expose your business to new potential customers.

e.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Pool Hall Business

Before embarking on the creation of your pool hall business, consider these essential questions:

Business Model: Which pool hall business model are you leaning towards? Will it be a traditional setup, a sports bar hybrid, an arcade combination, a luxury pool hall, or a membership club?

Workload Management: Will you handle the daily operations yourself, or do you plan to bring on employees?

Management Structure: Do you plan to directly oversee the pool hall’s management, or are you contemplating hiring a manager?

Partnerships and Investments: Are you considering bringing in partners or seeking external investors to help fund your pool hall?

Business Location: Will your pool hall be based in a residential area, or do you plan to operate from a commercial location?

Business Format: Are you considering a traditional brick-and-mortar setup, or are you exploring the possibility of including online components like virtual tournaments or online bookings?

Growth and Long-Term Goals: Have you considered your business’s future growth? What are your long-term goals? Are you looking to open multiple locations or become a franchise?

Licensing and Regulations: Have you researched the licenses and permits required to operate a pool hall in your city and state? Are you prepared to meet all regulatory requirements?

Marketing Strategy: How do you plan to market your pool hall to attract customers? Are you considering traditional advertising, social media marketing, or both?

Financial Plan: Have you developed a detailed financial plan that includes start-up costs, projected income, and expenses?

The answers to these questions will provide a solid foundation for your business plan, guiding you through the subsequent steps of launching your pool hall business.

Establishing clear answers early on will facilitate a smoother transition from planning to operation, setting the stage for your future success.

f.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Pool Hall Business

Pros of Running a Pool Hall Business

Independence

As the owner, you have the freedom to make critical business decisions. This autonomy allows you to control the direction and growth of your pool hall.

Owning a pool hall allows you to implement your innovative ideas, from the space’s overall design to the menu options.

Potential for High Revenue

With a successful business model, your pool hall could generate significant income.

Flexible Hours

Once your business is established and staffed properly, you can choose to work hours that best suit your lifestyle.

Control Over the Work Environment

You can create a work environment that aligns with your values and caters to the needs of your customers and employees.

Building a Community

Running a pool hall provides an opportunity to create a social hub and build a community among customers.

Cons of Running a Pool Hall Business

Responsibility

All business issues fall on your shoulders, from minor glitches to major crises.

Irregular Income

You might not draw a consistent paycheck in the early stages and during lean periods.

Start-Up Difficulties

The initial phase can be challenging, involving significant planning, investment, and hard work.

Extra Hours

Especially during the start-up phase, you may need to work long hours, often beyond the standard work week.

Success Pressure

Owning a business comes with high expectations and pressure to succeed, which can be stressful.

Large Initial Investment

Starting a pool hall requires substantial capital for purchasing or leasing a location, buying equipment, and covering operating expenses.

Business Risks

Running a business involves risk, from financial uncertainty to potential lawsuits or unforeseen events such as a global pandemic.

Staff Management Challenges

Hiring, training, and retaining good employees can be time-consuming and challenging. Poor staffing decisions can negatively impact your business.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

3. Research

Pool Hall Business Research

Thorough research is crucial for anyone considering opening a pool hall business. Accessing quality information will clearly understand the venture and help avoid unexpected situations.

Seeking Insights from Experienced Individuals

A valuable source of insights comes from individuals experienced in running a pool hall business. Their expertise enables them to offer reliable information on the industry.

Gaining Priceless Insights

Spending time with these seasoned professionals can be invaluable, providing an opportunity to gain insights from their extensive knowledge and years of experience.

Article with Guidance

I have written an article that offers ideas on identifying and approaching the right people respectfully and non-threateningly.

The steps outlined in the article go beyond the scope of this post, but I highly recommend reading it using the link below to gain a comprehensive understanding of the endeavor at hand.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Target Audience

Understanding your target audience in the pool hall business is essential for crafting effective offers and providing products and services that resonate with customers.

You can tailor your offerings to match their preferences and interests by gaining insights into your target market.

Target Market Ideas:

• Billiards enthusiasts and players seeking a social and recreational experience.
• Pool players of various skill levels, from beginners to advanced.
• Young adults and college students looking for entertainment and a fun atmosphere.
• Sports enthusiasts and fans interested in pool as a competitive activity.
• Local community members seeking a gathering place for socializing and leisure activities.
• Event organizers and party planners searching for unique and enjoyable venues.

Understanding and catering to these potential customers can help your pool hall business thrive.

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Startup Costs

In the pool hall business, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the startup costs involved.

This section provides an overview of the expenses you must consider, such as initial investments, monthly expenses, expected revenues, and potential profits.

Accurate Estimation for a Smooth Launch

To ensure a successful launch, it is vital to accurately estimate your startup costs.

This will help you navigate the planning phase smoothly and avoid financial hurdles that could hinder your business from opening.

Balancing Estimations

Underestimating your startup costs can lead to a shortage of funds, which may impede your ability to open your pool hall.

On the other hand, overestimating may make your venture appear risky to potential investors or lenders.

Factors Influencing Costs

Your specific costs will depend on various factors, including the size of your operation, chosen location, employee hiring, equipment purchases (new or used), and rental or leasing decisions.

By listing everything you need and researching prices, you can develop a comprehensive estimate that accounts for any additional issues arising during your research.

For more detailed information, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Sales and Profit Considerations

To gauge the profitability of your pool hall business, it is essential to consider sales and profit factors:

• Product and Service Popularity: The success of your sales depends on how well your products and services resonate with customers.
• Market Demand: Understanding the demand for pool hall offerings in your target market is crucial.
• Effective Marketing: Strategically marketing your business to reach the right audience is vital for generating sales and driving awareness.

Profitability Analysis

Profitability goes beyond the profit earned per sale. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of various expenses, including rent, payroll, and overhead costs.

Ensuring monthly sales cover these expenses while allowing for a sustainable salary is crucial for long-term success.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue

Sample Financial Lists As a Starting Point

1. Sample Start-Up Costs for a New Pool Hall Business

Commercial Space Lease: Depending on the location and size, leasing a commercial space suitable for a pool hall might range from $5,000 to $15,000 per month. This estimate assumes a monthly lease of $10,000.

Interior Renovations and Design: This covers the cost of remodeling the leased space, incorporating the pool hall theme, and setting up the bar, seating, and gaming areas—estimate: $20,000.

Pool Tables and Accessories: High-quality pool tables, pool cues, racks, chalk, and other essential accessories can be costly—estimate: $30,000.

Bar Equipment and Supplies: This includes commercial refrigerators, glassware, cocktail mixers, and other necessary items for the bar area—estimate: $15,000.

Furniture: Comfortable chairs, stools, tables, and other furnishings. Estimate: $10,000.

Initial Inventory: The initial stock of food and beverages for the bar and kitchen. Estimate: $5,000.

Licenses and Permits: Business license, liquor license, food handling permits, and other necessary legal documents. Estimate: $3,000.

Insurance: Business insurance covers property, liability, and workers’ compensation—estimate: $2,000.

Marketing and Advertising: Initial promotional activities to create awareness for the grand opening. Estimate: $5,000.

Total Estimated Start-Up Costs: $100,000

2. Sample Monthly Expenses for a Pool Hall Business

Rent: The recurring monthly lease cost. Estimate: $2,000.

Utilities: Includes electricity, water, heating, and internet services. Estimate: $500.

Employee Salaries: Wages for bartenders, wait staff, and cleaning staff. Estimate: $8,000.

Inventory: Regular replenishment of food and beverage supplies. Estimate: $3,000.

Maintenance and Repairs: Routine maintenance of pool tables, bar equipment, and the overall facility. Estimate: $500.

Marketing and Advertising: Ongoing promotional activities to attract and retain customers. Estimate: $1,000.

Insurance: Monthly premiums for business insurance. Estimate: $200.

Miscellaneous Expenses: Unforeseen costs that may arise in the daily operations. Estimate: $300.

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: $15,500

3. Sample Sales, Revenue, and Profit Breakdown

Revenue from Pool Table Rentals: Assuming an average charge of $10 per hour and 10 tables rented for 8 hours daily. ($10 x 10 tables x 8 hours x 30 days = $24,000)

Revenue from Food and Beverage Sales: If each customer spends an average of $20 on food and drinks, you serve 50 customers daily. ($20 x 50 customers x 30 days = $30,000)

Revenue from Events and Tournaments: Regular events, such as pool tournaments or private parties, can bring in additional revenue. For example, if you host four monthly events and charge $750. (4 events x $750 = $3,000)

Total Revenue: $57,000 per month

Total Monthly Expenses: $15,500

Monthly Profit (Revenue – Expenses): $41,500

Keep in mind these figures are just examples. Your actual costs, revenues, and profits will vary based on numerous factors.

It is critical to conduct thorough research and consider seeking professional advice to accurately estimate these figures when planning your business.

5. Choosing The Right Business Location

The Significance of Location

Choosing the right location is a critical decision that can determine the success or failure of your pool hall business.

Demand and Failure

Operating in an area without demand for pool hall services can fail even before you launch your business. Assessing the potential customer base and their interest in what you offer is essential.

Competition and Market Share

Opening your pool hall in an area saturated with competitors can make establishing a significant market share challenging.

Striking a balance is crucial, as you want a location with demand and an acceptable level of competition.

Affordability and Profitability

Consider your financial capabilities when selecting a location.

While operating in a densely populated area can provide greater exposure, ensuring that the additional expenses align with your business’s profitability is important.

Conversely, opting for a more affordable location must be balanced with the potential to generate sufficient sales.

Thorough Research for Success

Choosing the right location is a pivotal factor in achieving success. Conduct diligent research to evaluate various factors, including demand, competition, affordability, and potential profitability.

Making an informed decision based on careful analysis will contribute to the prosperity of your pool hall business.

For more about business locations, see Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

6. Create Your Mission Statement

A mission statement plays a vital role in clarifying the purpose of your pool hall business.

It serves as a guiding principle, ensuring you stay focused and committed to delivering the main benefit to your customers and community.

Examples of Pool Hall Mission Statements:

• “Our mission is to create a vibrant and inclusive environment where pool enthusiasts of all skill levels can gather, socialize, and enjoy the thrill of the game while providing exceptional customer service.”
• “We are dedicated to being the premier destination for pool entertainment, offering top-notch facilities, a friendly atmosphere, and a wide range of events that foster camaraderie and passion for the game.”
• “At our pool hall, our mission is to promote the art of billiards by providing a welcoming space, professional-grade tables, and expert instruction, inspiring players to improve their skills and indulge in the excitement of the sport.”
• “Our mission is to be a community hub, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for individuals of all ages to gather, play pool, and connect with fellow enthusiasts, while also supporting local charitable initiatives through our philanthropic endeavors.”
• “We strive to be the go-to destination for pool entertainment, combining exceptional gameplay experiences with exceptional hospitality, creating lasting memories for our patrons and contributing to the growth and appreciation of the pool hall culture.”

For more, see, How To Create a Mission Statement

7. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) plays a crucial role in identifying and creating a distinct feature that sets your pool hall business apart from competitors.

It helps define what makes your business special and highlights the unique value you offer customers.

Examples of USPs for a Pool Hall Business:

• “Our pool hall stands out by offering state-of-the-art, tournament-grade tables and equipment, providing an unmatched playing experience for both casual players and serious enthusiasts.”
• “We differentiate ourselves by offering a wide selection of craft beers and signature cocktails, creating a lively social atmosphere where patrons can enjoy their favorite beverages while playing pool.”
• “Our pool hall sets itself apart by hosting regular themed events and leagues, adding excitement and fostering a strong sense of community among players, creating an engaging and dynamic environment.”
• “We distinguish ourselves by providing exceptional customer service, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed, supported, and valued throughout their visit, enhancing the overall experience at our pool hall.”
• “Our pool hall stands out through our commitment to sustainability, utilizing eco-friendly practices and materials, showcasing our dedication to environmental responsibility while offering a premium entertainment experience.”

8. Choose a Business Name

Choosing the Right Pool Hall Business Name

Selecting a compelling and fitting business name is essential for your pool hall.

Create a catchy and memorable name that is easy to pronounce. Remember, your chosen name will likely remain with your company long-term.

Consider Online Presence

Alongside the business name, securing a matching domain name is crucial for establishing your online presence.

Ensure the desired name is available and not already registered by another business.

30 Pool Hall Business Name Ideas to Inspire Creativity:

• Pocket Palace
• Billiards Oasis
• Corner Pocket Club
• Break & Play
• Chalked Up Billiards
• Rack ‘Em Up Hall
• Cue Ball Junction
• The Cue Spot
• Shooters’ Paradise
• Pocket Rockets
• Bank Shot Billiards
• Cue & Cushion
• Top Spin Billiards
• Cornerstone Billiards
• Cue Masters
• Break Time Billiards
• Shot Callers Hall
• Stroke of Luck
• Sharpshooters Lounge
• Cue Craftsmen
• Diamond Cue Club
• The Green Felt
• Billiards Bliss
• Perfect Pockets
• Spin City Billiards
• Poolside Retreat
• The Cue Vault
• Billiards Boulevard

Let these ideas inspire your creativity as you work towards crafting a unique and original name for your pool hall business.

For more, see the following articles:

• How To Register a Business Name
• Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

9. Register Your Company

Ensuring Legal Compliance for Your Pool Hall Business

Legal compliance is paramount when establishing a pool hall business.

Taking the necessary steps to ensure your business operates within the legal framework mitigates risks and helps you maximize tax benefits and manage liability effectively.

Professional Guidance for Legal and Financial Setup

Consider consulting with a professional, such as a lawyer or accountant, specializing in business regulations.

Their expertise can provide invaluable guidance on legal requirements, tax optimization, and liability protection, setting a solid foundation for your pool hall business.

Common Types of Registrations for a Pool Hall Business

• Business Structure Registration : Determine the appropriate business structure, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation, and complete the necessary registrations accordingly.
• DBA Registration : If you operate under a name different from your legal business name, file a “Doing Business As” (DBA) registration to ensure proper identification.
• Tax Registrations : Obtain the necessary tax registrations, including an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal tax obligations.

Permits and Licenses for a Pool Hall Business

When starting a pool hall business, consider the following permits and licenses:

• Business License : Obtain a general business license from the local licensing authority.
• Alcohol License : If you plan to serve alcoholic beverages, secure the required alcohol license or permit based on local regulations.
• Health and Safety Permits : Comply with health and safety regulations by obtaining necessary permits, such as food handling permits and fire safety certifications.
• Music and Entertainment Licenses : If you plan to host live music or entertainment events, ensure you have the required licenses for copyright and performance rights.
• Zoning and Building Permits : Check with the local zoning department to determine if your chosen location is zoned for a pool hall business. Secure any building permits necessary for renovations or construction.

Working closely with professionals and local authorities will help you navigate the legal landscape effectively, ensuring your pool hall business operates within the required regulations and protecting you and your customers.

Registration:

• How to Register Your Business
• How To Register a DBA
• How to Register a Trademark
• How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

• How to Choose a Business Structure
• Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Form an LLC
• How To Register a Business Partnership
• How To Form a Corporation
• How To Choose a Business Registration Service

10. Create Your Corporate Identity

Developing a Strong Corporate Identity for Your Pool Hall Business

A Corporate Identity (ID) is a crucial element visually representing your pool hall business. It encompasses various components such as your logo, business cards, website, business sign, stationery, and promotional items.

Visual Consistency and Professionalism

Maintaining a consistent and professional design across these components is essential to leave a lasting impression on new and existing customers.

Logo Design

Your logo serves as the centerpiece of your Corporate ID, symbolizing your pool hall business and creating brand recognition. It should be visually appealing, memorable, and reflective of your unique identity.

Business Cards and Stationery

Ensure your business cards and stationery materials, such as letterheads and envelopes, align with your Corporate ID. Consistent branding across these materials enhances professionalism and reinforces brand recognition.

Website and Online Presence

Your website should feature your Corporate ID elements, including your logo, color scheme, and overall design aesthetic. A visually appealing and user-friendly website creates a cohesive online experience for customers.

Business Sign and Promotional Items

Your business sign should prominently display your logo and adhere to your Corporate ID. Additionally, consider incorporating your Corporate ID into promotional items, such as merchandise or giveaways, to reinforce your brand image.

By establishing a strong and consistent Corporate Identity, your pool hall business can effectively communicate its professionalism, attract customers, and build a recognizable brand presence.

A Corporate ID consists of various components such as your logo , business cards , website , business sign , stationary, promotional items, etc.

See A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages for more.

11. Writing a Business Plan

The Significance of a Business Plan for Your Pool Hall Business

A business plan holds immense importance for your pool hall business.

It serves multiple purposes, including acquiring funding, attracting investors, and providing a guiding framework for the startup and operational phases.

Creating a Vision for Your Business

Writing a business plan requires dedicated time and effort as it involves envisioning the future of your pool hall when it is up and running. Careful planning and thoughtful expression of details are essential during this process.

Understanding Startup Requirements

Completing a comprehensive business plan lets you grasp the necessary elements for getting started and provides a clear vision of successfully operating your pool hall business.

Options for Creating a Business Plan

When creating your business plan, you have various options available. You can write it from scratch, hire a professional, utilize a template, or leverage business plan software.

Active Participation and Effective Communication

Regardless of your option, active participation is crucial, especially if you decide to hire a professional. This ensures your business plan is distinctive and effectively conveys the nature of your pool hall business and your management approach.

A Dynamic Document

Remember that your business plan can evolve and be optimized as you gain experience. Reviewing the document periodically and making necessary adjustments to align with changes in your business operations is advisable.

Developing a well-crafted business plan sets a solid foundation for your pool hall business, enabling you to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve long-term success.

A Fictitious Business Plan Example for a Pool Hall

Business Name: Rack ‘n Roll Pool Hall

Executive Summary

Rack ‘n Roll Pool Hall is a start-up business that provides a fun, engaging, and high-quality recreational space for pool enthusiasts and casual players.

Located in the heart of a bustling downtown district, we aim to become a destination for patrons seeking a relaxing environment to unwind, engage in friendly competition, and enjoy premium food and beverages.

Company Description

Rack ‘n Roll Pool Hall is designed to fill our community’s need for an upscale yet approachable pool hall. In addition to top-notch pool-playing facilities, our establishment will offer a fully-stocked bar and a compact menu of gourmet bites. We will host regular pool tournaments and special events to promote community engagement and customer loyalty.

Market Analysis

Our primary target market comprises millennials and Gen Z adults who value high-quality leisure experiences. Given the growing interest in retro and tactile games among these demographics, our pool hall is well-positioned to attract a consistent customer base. Secondary markets include corporate clients for team-building events and local pool leagues.

Organization and Management

Rack ‘n Roll Pool Hall will be owned and operated by Jane Doe and John Doe, experienced entrepreneurs with backgrounds in hospitality and marketing.

They will oversee strategic planning, financial management, and marketing initiatives. A full-time manager and a dedicated team of bartenders, servers, and maintenance staff will be hired to handle daily operations.

Services and Products

We offer a high-end pool playing experience with well-maintained tables and professional-grade equipment. Our bar will serve various beverages, including craft beers, fine wines, and artisanal cocktails.

The food menu will feature locally sourced, gourmet bar snacks. We also plan to host weekly pool tournaments and offer the venue for private events.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

Our marketing strategy involves a mix of online and offline approaches, including social media promotion, local print advertising, and participation in community events.

Excellent customer service, a top-tier playing environment, and a loyalty program for regular customers will drive sales.

Financial Projections

We project that Rack ‘n Roll Pool Hall will generate about $57,000 in monthly revenue from pool table rentals, food and beverage sales, and special events.

Our estimated monthly expenses, which include rent, utilities, salaries, inventory replenishment, and marketing, will total approximately $15,500.

This leaves a monthly profit of $41,500. We anticipate becoming profitable within the first year of operation.

Funding Request

We are seeking $120,000 in start-up funding to cover the lease and renovation of our commercial space, purchase of pool tables and bar equipment, initial inventory, and initial marketing efforts.

This can be a business loan or an investment in exchange for a minority share.

Exit Strategy

Should we decide to exit the business, our strategy would include selling the business as a going concern or liquidating the assets and closing down.

Rack ‘n Roll Pool Hall presents a promising opportunity to capitalize on a growing trend and fill a gap in our community’s entertainment options.

We are confident in delivering a high-quality experience to keep customers returning and sustain a profitable business model.

For information on creating your business plan, see, How to Write a Business Plan.

12. Banking Considerations

Selecting a Business-Friendly Bank for Your Pool Hall Business

When choosing a bank for your pool hall business, consider opting for a nearby institution catering to business owners.

Benefits of a Separate Business Account

Maintaining a separate business account offers several advantages. It clearly distinguishes between business expenses and personal spending, simplifying expense tracking and bookkeeping.

Additionally, having a separate account provides documentation in case of a tax audit.

Building a Professional Relationship with Your Banker

Developing a professional relationship with your banker is highly beneficial. They can offer valuable advice and financial services tailored to your pool hall business.

Moreover, they can streamline processes related to loan applications and other banking needs.

Accepting Credit and Debit Cards

Considering the prevalence of electronic payments, applying for a merchant account or a similar setup that enables you to accept credit and debit cards is important.

This allows for convenient and secure transactions, enhancing the overall customer experience.

By selecting a bank that understands the needs of business owners, maintaining a separate business account, and establishing a rapport with your banker, you can effectively manage your pool hall business’s financial affairs and provide seamless payment options for your customers.

For more, see, How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at, What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

13. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Obtaining Funding for Your Pool Hall Business

If you require financial assistance to start and operate your pool hall business, several funding options are available. Consider the following tips if you need a loan to kickstart your venture:

• Explore Traditional Lenders : Approach traditional lenders, such as banks or credit unions, to inquire about business loans tailored to small businesses like yours.
• Private Loans : Research private lending institutions or individuals willing to fund your pool hall business. Private loans often offer flexibility in terms and conditions.
• Investors : Seek out potential investors interested in supporting your pool hall business. Prepare a compelling pitch highlighting your venture’s unique value and profitability.
• Leverage Assets : Consider selling any assets you own or utilizing collateral, such as property or equipment, to secure a loan.

When meeting with a loan officer, keep the following considerations in mind:

• Clearly articulate your business plan, showcasing your market analysis, revenue projections, and growth potential.
• Demonstrate your ability to manage financial responsibilities and repay the loan.
• Business plan
• Financial statements
• Tax returns
• Proof of collateral (if applicable)
• Personal financial information

Remember, funding options may vary based on your specific circumstances. It is advisable to consult with financial professionals and explore multiple avenues to secure the funding necessary to launch and sustain your pool hall business.

See, Getting a Small Business Loan for more.

14. Software Setup

Software Considerations for Your Pool Hall Business

When considering software options for your pool hall business, it is important to conduct thorough research to make informed decisions. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Implementation Considerations : It is generally easier to implement software from scratch rather than switching to a new system after your data is already in another program. Consider the long-term scalability and compatibility of the software you choose.
• Demo and User Reviews : Look for software providers that offer demos or free trials. This allows you to test the software firsthand and assess its suitability for your business needs. Additionally, read reviews and explore forums to learn from the experiences of other pool hall business owners.
• Financial Management Software : Research software solutions for effectively tracking expenses and preparing financial documents required for tax filings. Consulting with your bookkeeper or accountant can provide valuable insights and guidance in choosing the right accounting software for your business.

Software Options for a Pool Hall Business:

• Point of Sale (POS) Systems : Look for POS software designed to manage pool hall operations, with features like table reservations, inventory management, and integrated payment processing.
• Scheduling and Booking Software : Consider software solutions that streamline the process of scheduling pool table reservations and managing customer bookings.
• Membership and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software : Explore CRM platforms that help you efficiently manage customer information, loyalty programs, and targeted marketing campaigns.
• Accounting Software : Research accounting software options that facilitate bookkeeping, expense tracking, invoicing, and financial reporting tailored to the needs of small businesses.
• Security and Surveillance Software : Look for security and surveillance solutions that integrate with your pool hall, allowing you to monitor and manage video footage for enhanced safety and security.

Evaluate these software options based on your specific requirements and seek demos or trials whenever possible to make informed decisions that optimize the operations of your pool hall business.

Software Considerations for a Pool Hall Business.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a pool hall business.

15. Get The Right Business Insurance

Insurance Considerations for Your Pool Hall Business

To safeguard your pool hall business, having the right insurance coverage in place before any activities occur on your premises is crucial.

Consider the following concerns when seeking insurance:

• Comprehensive Coverage : Look for insurance policies that cover various aspects of your pool hall business, including protection for customers, employees, yourself, individuals on the premises, and your property.
• Professional Liability Insurance : Consider obtaining professional liability insurance to protect yourself and your business against potential lawsuits arising from professional services rendered, such as providing coaching or organizing tournaments.
• Specialized Pool Hall Insurance : Seek insurance providers or brokers specializing in pool hall insurance. They have industry-specific knowledge and can tailor coverage to the unique risks associated with your business.
• Risk Assessment : Conduct a thorough risk assessment of your pool hall to identify potential hazards and liabilities. Share this information with your insurance broker to ensure proper coverage.
• Work with a Competent Insurance Broker : Partner with a competent insurance broker who understands the pool hall industry and can guide you in selecting appropriate coverage. They should assess your specific needs, provide recommendations, and ensure you have sufficient coverage for your business.
• Policy Limits and Exclusions : Review policy limits and exclusions carefully to understand the extent of coverage and any applicable limitations or exceptions.
• Cost vs. Coverage : Consider the balance between insurance costs and the level of coverage provided. Compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the most suitable coverage at a competitive price.

By addressing these concerns and working closely with an experienced insurance broker, you can secure the right insurance coverage to protect your pool hall business and mitigate potential risks effectively.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for pool hall business insurance .

16. Select Suppliers

Choosing Suppliers for Your Pool Hall Business

Establishing strong relationships with reliable suppliers is crucial for the success of your pool hall business. Consider the following factors when selecting suppliers:

Reliability and Trustworthiness

Choose suppliers who have a proven track record of reliability and trustworthiness. This ensures that they consistently deliver products on time and meet quality standards.

Competitive Pricing

Opt for suppliers who offer competitive pricing. By securing favorable pricing, you can pass on savings to your customers, maintain competitive pricing in the market, and increase your profit margin.

Adequate Stock Availability

Ensure that your suppliers can provide a consistent supply of the necessary stock items to meet the demands of your pool hall business. Avoid stock shortages or delays in order fulfillment by partnering with suppliers who can meet your inventory needs.

Respectful and Mutually Beneficial Relationships

Treat your suppliers with respect and establish mutually beneficial relationships.

Fair and timely payments, open communication, and collaboration can contribute to a positive working relationship, enhancing supplier loyalty and support.

Remember, a reliable supplier network is vital for the smooth operation of your pool hall business.

Continually evaluate your suppliers’ performance, maintain open lines of communication, and explore opportunities for long-term partnerships that align with your business goals.

For More See, How To Choose a Supplier.

17. Physical Setup

A pool hall business’s physical setup/layout is crucial in creating an enjoyable and functional customer environment.

It strategically arranges pool tables, seating areas, and amenities to maximize space utilization.

A well-designed layout ensures smooth customer flow, promotes social interaction and allows for efficient staff operations.

Setting up proper signage is essential for a pool hall business. In addition to the main business sign, it is important to place signs in relevant locations such as parking lots, exits, and special areas.

Well-designed and strategically placed signs help direct customers, enhance safety measures, and showcase professionalism in your operation.

Office Setup:

A well-organized office is vital for effectively managing your pool hall business. As the administrative hub, your office should have the necessary tools and resources to handle various tasks efficiently.

It should include a computer, phone, filing system, and comfortable workspace.

An organized office environment increases productivity and enables you to handle administrative duties effectively, allowing you to focus on running your business smoothly.

See, Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office, for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

Benefits of Having a Website for Your Pool Hall Business

A website for your pool hall business offers numerous advantages in today’s digital age. Here are some key benefits:

• Online Presence and Visibility : A website provides a digital storefront, making your pool hall accessible to potential customers 24/7 and expanding your reach beyond physical limitations.
• Information Hub : Your website serves as an information hub to showcase your pool hall’s amenities, services, pricing, promotions, and special events, allowing customers to make informed decisions.
• Customer Engagement : A website enables direct customer interaction through contact forms, email subscriptions, and online booking options, fostering engagement and building relationships.
• Marketing and Branding : Utilize your website as a powerful marketing tool to promote your pool hall business, share testimonials, and highlight your unique selling points, enhancing brand recognition and credibility.
• Online Reservations and Bookings : Incorporate online reservation systems to simplify the booking process for customers, providing convenience and boosting customer satisfaction.
• Search Engine Visibility : Optimize your website for search engines to improve your online visibility, attract organic traffic, and increase the chances of being discovered by potential customers.
• Competitive Advantage : Having a professional website sets you apart from competitors who may not have an online presence, establishing your pool hall as a modern and trustworthy business.

By leveraging the benefits of a well-designed website, you can enhance your pool hall business’s online presence, attract new customers, and create a positive and engaging experience for visitors.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

Building an External Support Team for Your Pool Hall Business

Creating an external support team of professionals is essential for your pool hall business. These individuals provide valuable advice and services while not being on your payroll.

Team Engagement and Benefits

Ideally, you can engage their services per-use, contractual, or hourly.

Although you may already collaborate with some professionals, considering them as part of your team helps you recognize their significance and consider adding more members.

Gradual Development of the Team

You don’t need to have the entire team in place before starting your business. Building professional relationships and finding reliable individuals takes time. However, it is an ongoing effort worth pursuing.

Key Team Members

A strong external support team can assist you when needed. Your team may comprise various experts, such as:

• Accountant : Provides financial guidance, tax planning, and bookkeeping services.
• Lawyer : Offers legal advice, contract review, and compliance support.
• Financial Advisor : Assists with investment strategies, retirement planning, and financial management.
• Marketing Specialist : Develops marketing campaigns, social media strategies, and brand positioning.
• Technical Advisors : Provide expertise in technology solutions, equipment maintenance, and software integration.
• Consultants : Offer specialized industry knowledge and guidance in specific areas of your pool hall business.

Collaborating with these professionals ensures you have access to specialized knowledge and guidance in different areas critical to your pool hall business’s success.

As your business grows, you can expand your team to include additional experts contributing to your overall operations and strategic decisions.

For more, see, Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

Managing Your Workforce for a Successful Pool Hall Business

In the early stages of your pool hall business, you might consider handling all tasks alone to minimize expenses, particularly payroll costs, during the initial phase.

However, as your business expands, managing and operating everything alone may become overwhelming.

Hiring employees can significantly enhance productivity and allow you to focus on essential aspects of business growth.

List of Essential Job Positions for Running a Pool Hall Business:

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your pool hall business grows and becomes successful:

• Front Desk Attendant : Responsible for greeting customers, managing reservations, and handling customer inquiries.
• Game Room Attendant : Ensures smooth operation of the game area, including maintaining equipment, assisting players, and enforcing rules.
• Bartender : Manages the bar area, serves drinks, and ensures responsible alcohol service.
• Maintenance Staff : Handles routine maintenance, repairs, and cleanliness of the pool tables, game area, and facilities.
• Marketing Specialist : Develops and implements marketing strategies, advertising campaigns, and promotions to attract customers.
• Event Coordinator : Organizes and coordinates special events, tournaments, and leagues for increased customer engagement.
• Bookkeeper : Manages financial records, tracks revenue and expenses, and prepares financial reports.
• Security Personnel : Ensures the safety and security of customers and premises during business hours.
• Janitorial Services : Outsourced cleaning services to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the facility.

As your pool hall business flourishes, consider gradually expanding your team or outsourcing specific services to meet the demands of a growing customer base and to ensure smooth operations.

For more, see, How and When to Hire a New Employee.

Points To Consider

Hours of operation:.

Hours of Operation for a Pool Hall Business

When determining the hours of operation for your pool hall business, consider the following options based on customer demand, local regulations, and operational feasibility:

• Standard Business Hours : Opening your pool hall during typical business hours, such as 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, caters to customers looking for daytime play or recreational activities.
• Extended Evening Hours : Adjusting your hours to accommodate evening crowds can attract customers who prefer to visit after work or during their leisure time. For example, opening from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM or even later can cater to a broader range of customers.
• Late-Night Operations : Offering late-night hours, such as opening from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM or beyond, can attract night owls, young adults, and those seeking entertainment during unconventional hours.
• Weekend and Holiday Operations : Considering extended hours on weekends and holidays, such as opening earlier or closing later, can accommodate customers with more flexible schedules and capitalize on peak leisure times.
• Flexible Timing : Offering flexible hours where you adjust your schedule based on customer demand can be advantageous. For instance, opening earlier during school breaks or hosting special events during specific times can cater to specific customer segments.

Remember to evaluate the market demand, local competition, and operational considerations when deciding on your pool hall’s hours of operation.

Regularly reassess and adapt your hours to ensure optimal customer satisfaction and business profitability.

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Pool Hall Business:

Pool Tables: This is the most crucial equipment for your business. The number of tables you need will depend on the size of your premises. Typically, both 7-foot and 9-foot tables are included.

Pool Cues: Provide a range of high-quality cues for your customers. Some players may bring their own, but many will rely on the ones you provide.

Cue Racks: For neat organization and safekeeping of cues when not in use.

Pool Balls: Ensure you have extra sets in case of loss or damage.

Table Brushes and Covers: Brushes keep the felt clean, while covers protect the tables when unused.

Chalks and Cue Tips: These supplies are used frequently and must be replaced regularly.

Table Lights: Proper lighting is crucial for a good game of pool. Consider investing in high-quality overhead lights for each table.

Ball Racks: These are used to collect the balls after each game.

Billiard Gloves: Some players prefer using gloves for better cue control.

Scoring System: A chalkboard or electronic system can keep score during games.

Furniture: Comfortable seating and tables for customers are important, as are bar stools if you serve drinks.

Sound System: Background music can enhance the atmosphere in your pool hall.

Food and Beverage Equipment: If you’re serving food and drinks, you’ll need kitchen and bar equipment, including refrigerators, coolers, glassware, and utensils.

Point of Sale System: A modern POS system can streamline sales, inventory management, and financial tracking.

Security System: This includes surveillance cameras and alarm systems for the safety of your customers and your business.

Cleaning Supplies: Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to keep your space attractive and welcoming.

Remember, the quality of your equipment and supplies can significantly impact your customer’s experience, so it’s worth investing in high-quality items where possible.

Pool Hall Buyer Guides

Enhancing Industry Knowledge with Pool Table and Equipment Buyer Guides

Devoting time to study pool tables and equipment buyer guides is beneficial for gaining a customer’s perspective and expanding your industry knowledge.

These guides provide valuable insights into the features, quality, and customer preferences related to pool tables and equipment.

See the latest search results for pool table buyer guides.

Marketing Considerations

Attracting Customers to Your Pool Hall Business

Attracting customers is crucial to ensure your pool hall business’s success. While it may be challenging initially due to your new operation, building a good reputation over time and gaining marketing experience will make it easier.

Ongoing Marketing Efforts

Marketing your pool hall business should be an ongoing process. The more you invest in effective marketing techniques, the more revenue you generate.

No Need for Experts

You don’t always need a marketing agency or expert to market your business. You can always do that if needed.

To simplify your marketing process, think of it as bringing awareness to your business, which you can do anytime an opportunity arises.

See our article How To Get Customers Through the Door and our marketing section for articles that will provide ideas to bring awareness to your pool hall business.

Evaluating Your Skill Set for Running a Pool Hall Business

Focusing on your skill set and assessing whether you possess the necessary abilities to successfully run a pool hall business is important.

If you lack a crucial skill, you can learn it or hire someone with expertise.

Essential Skills for a Pool Hall Business Owner:

• Business Management : A solid understanding of business operations, financial management, and strategic planning.
• Customer Service : The ability to provide exceptional customer experiences, resolve issues, and build customer loyalty.
• Communication : Effective communication skills for customers, employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
• Leadership : The capability to motivate and lead your team, delegate tasks, and make sound decisions.
• Marketing and Promotion : Knowledge of marketing strategies, brand building, and promoting your pool hall effectively.
• Problem-Solving : The aptitude to identify and solve challenges that may arise in day-to-day operations.
• Organizational Skills : Managing schedules, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining efficient workflows.
• Financial Management : Proficiency in financial planning, budgeting, and managing cash flow.
• Industry Knowledge : Familiarity with pool hall operations, rules, equipment, and industry trends.
• Adaptability : Being open to change, embracing new technologies, and adjusting strategies based on market demands.

Evaluating and developing these essential skills will contribute to your effectiveness as a pool hall business owner and enhance the overall success of your venture.

Expert Tips

Improving Skills and Knowledge with Expert Tips

Examining expert tips is beneficial for individuals at any skill level, whether they are experts or novices.

Experts can discover more efficient methods or gain fresh perspectives, while novices can gather valuable tips to enhance their skills and expand their knowledge.

Embracing expert advice fosters continuous growth and improvement in your chosen field.

See the latest search results for expert pool hall tips to gain tips and insights.

Valuable Resources for Your Pool Hall Business

In this section, you will find a collection of resources that can provide you with the latest and most popular information related to the pool hall industry.

These resources are beneficial during the startup phase and when your business is fully operational.

By exploring these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the industry, stay updated on industry trends, and acquire valuable tips to enhance your pool hall business.

These resources serve as valuable references to help you make informed decisions and improve various aspects of your business operations.

Trends and Statistics

Understanding Industry Trends and Statistics for Your Pool Hall Business

Examining industry trends and statistics offers several benefits for your pool hall business. It provides insights into consumer preferences, market demand, and emerging opportunities.

You can make informed decisions, adapt your strategies, and stay ahead of the competition by staying informed.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the pool hall industry.

Pool Hall Associations

Benefits of Trade Associations for Your Pool Hall Business

Trade associations provide several advantages, such as keeping you informed about industry news and providing networking opportunities.

These benefits become more pronounced when associations host events, enabling you to connect with industry professionals and stay updated on the latest developments.

See the search results related to pool hall associations.

Top Pool Hall Business

Gaining Insights from Established Pool Hall Businesses

Examining established pool hall businesses can provide valuable ideas and insights.

It helps identify gaps in the industry where you can introduce innovative offerings and uncover areas in your business that may have been overlooked or need improvement.

See the latest search results for the top pool hall businesses.

The Future of the Pool Hall Industry

Researching the Future of the Pool Hall Industry

Researching the future of the pool hall industry offers several benefits for aspiring business owners.

It provides insights into emerging trends, market demand, and potential growth opportunities.

This knowledge helps develop a forward-thinking business strategy and stay competitive in the evolving market landscape.

See the search results for the future of the pool hall industry.

Pool Hall Businesses for Sale

Pros and Cons of Buying an Established Pool Hall Business

Considering an existing pool hall business that is already operational has advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits of Buying an Established Pool Hall Business:

• Immediate Revenue : You can start earning revenue from the day you take over the business, avoiding the challenges of the startup phase.
• Proven Business Model : The fact that the business is already operating successfully indicates that its model works effectively.
• Existing Customer Base : With an established business, you already have a customer base, saving you time and effort in acquiring new customers.
• Reputation and Goodwill : The business has built a reputation over time, which can enhance its credibility and attract loyal customers.

Disadvantages of Buying an Established Pool Hall Business:

• Higher Cost : The purchase price is usually higher due to the value of the existing customer base and reputation.
• Challenges with Change : If you want to make significant changes to the business, it may lead to losing some customers accustomed to the previous operation.
• Inheriting Good and Bad : When purchasing an existing business, you acquire its reputation’s positive and negative aspects.

Carefully weighing these pros and cons will help you decide whether buying an established pool hall business is the right choice for you.

See the latest search results related to pool hall – businesses for sale to browse the latest listings.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a pool hall

Pros and Cons of Buying a Pool Hall Franchise

Considering a pool hall franchise has advantages and disadvantages, making it important to evaluate before starting a business. Exploring franchise opportunities may also uncover aspects of a pool hall you hadn’t considered.

Pros of Buying a Pool Hall Franchise:

• Proven Business Model : By following the established plan created by the corporate office, you can benefit from a proven business model.
• Existing Reputation and Marketing : Leveraging the franchise’s existing reputation and marketing efforts can give your business a head start.
• Comprehensive Business Knowledge : You gain valuable insights about the business before entering, ensuring you thoroughly understand its operations.
• Corporate Support : Having support from the corporate office provides guidance and assistance throughout your franchising journey.

Cons of Buying a Pool Hall Franchise:

• Higher Cost : Acquiring a franchise can be expensive, involving initial fees and ongoing royalty payments.
• Limited Autonomy : Making major changes to the business requires approval from the corporate office, reducing your ability to implement independent decisions.
• Restricted Product/Service Offerings : Operating within the franchise agreement restricts dealing with products or services not approved by the franchisor.
• Operational Restrictions : The franchise agreement typically dictates how the business should be operated, leaving less room for customization.

Carefully consider these pros and cons to determine if buying a pool hall franchise aligns with your goals and preferences as a business owner.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Harnessing Knowledge for Your Pool Hall Business

Knowledge is a powerful tool when applied effectively. Online resources offer a wealth of information for your pool hall business.

Explore the links provided in the following sections to access valuable industry insights that can guide you during the research, startup, and full operation phases of your business.

Stay informed, make informed decisions, and continuously adapt your strategies for long-term success.

A Day in the Life

A Glimpse into the Life of a Pool Hall Business Owner

Discover valuable tips and insights from industry professionals in “A Day in the Life of a Pool Hall Business Owner.”

Gain an overview of what to expect and gather practical advice to navigate the daily operations of your pool hall business.

See the search results related to a day in the life of pool hall business owners.

Pool Hall Business Owners Interviews

Insights from Pool Hall Business Owners: Valuable Perspectives and Information

Exploring interviews with business owners in the pool hall industry provides important insights and information.

Take the time to delve into this section, as it offers diverse perspectives and valuable knowledge about the industry, giving you a clearer understanding of what to expect.

See the search results related to interviews of pool hall business owners.

Publications

Staying Informed: Publications for Pool Hall Businesses

Publications are a valuable resource to stay updated with the latest information about the pool hall industry.

Explore these publications to access timely insights, industry trends, and relevant news to keep your pool hall business informed and competitive.

See the search results for Industry publications.

Engage in Pool Hall Forums: Building Relationships and Gaining Customer Perspectives

Participating in pool hall forums provides an opportunity to join engaging discussions on hot topics. Actively participating allows you to forge relationships with industry peers and gain insights into customer perspectives, offering invaluable information for your pool hall business.

See the latest search results related to pool hall forums.

Enhance Your Skillset with Pool Hall Business Courses

Engaging in courses related to the pool hall business is an excellent way to learn, improve your skills, and stay updated with the industry.

Enroll in these courses to enhance your knowledge and stay current in this dynamic field.

See the latest courses related to running a pool hall business.

Pool Hall Blogs

Stay Informed and Inspired with Pool Hall Blogs

Subscribing to pool hall blogs is a great way to gather ideas and stay updated with industry trends.

By subscribing to multiple blogs and curating your collection based on relevance and quality, you can ensure a constant flow of valuable information to inspire and inform your pool hall business.

Look at the latest search results for pool hall blogs to follow.

Stay Informed with Pool Hall Industry News

Keeping up with the news is a great way to stay updated on the latest happenings in the pool hall industry.

Set up alerts to receive timely notifications whenever new developments are covered by the media, ensuring you stay informed and in-the-know.

See what’s in the news related to a pool hall business.

Discover Valuable Tips and Insights with Pool Hall Industry Videos

Watching videos about the pool hall industry provides many tips and insights.

Additionally, explore related videos suggested by YouTube, as they often cover topics you may not have considered before, expanding your knowledge and understanding of the industry.

See the links to YouTube Videos Below.

• Videos related to starting a pool hall business can be found here.

Privacy Overview

• Sample Business Plans
• Retail, Consumers & E-commerce

Pool Hall Business Plan

Are you keen to leave a 9 to 5 job and replace it with something exciting? A pool hall business might be the perfect to turn your love for games into a business.

Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a cue rookie with a dream, the key to the success of the business lies in a meticulously crafted business plan.

Seeking funding or striving for success, our pool hall business plan template is your trusted companion, designed to transform your vision into reality. Let’s dive deep into each step of the business plan.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Pool Hall Business Plan?

Writing a pool hall business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your Business

Start your executive summary by briefly introducing your business to your readers. This section may include the name of your pool hall business, its location, when it was founded, etc.

Market Opportunity

Summarize your market research, including market size, growth potential, and marketing trends. Highlight the opportunities in the market and how your business will fit in to fill the gap.

Marketing & Sales Strategies

Outline your sales and marketing strategies—what marketing platforms you use, how you plan on acquiring customers, etc.

Financial Highlights

Briefly summarize your financial projections for the initial years of business operations. Include any capital or investment requirements, associated startup costs, projected revenues, and profit forecasts.

Call to Action

Summarize your executive summary section with a clear CTA, for example, inviting angel investors to discuss the potential business investment.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your business. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business Description

Describe what kind of pool hall business you run and the name of it. You may specialize in one of the following pool hall businesses:

• Classic pool hall
• Upscale lounge
• Sportsbar with pool table
• Pool and entertainment complex
• College or campus pool hall

Describe the legal structure of your pool hall business, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others. Also, explain where your business is located and why you selected the place. Here is an example:

List the names of your pool hall business’s founders or owners. Describe what shares they own and their responsibilities for efficiently managing the business.

Mission Statement

Summarize your business’ objective, core principles, and values in your mission statement. This statement needs to be memorable, clear, and brief.

Business History

If you’re an established pool hall business, briefly describe your business history, like—when it was founded, how it evolved over time, etc.

Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.

Future Goals

It’s crucial to convey your aspirations and vision. Mention your short-term and long-term goals; they can be specific targets for revenue, market share, or expanding your services.

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market

Start this section by describing your target market. Define your ideal customer and explain what types of activities they prefer. Creating a buyer persona will help you easily define your target market to your readers.

Market size and growth potential

Describe your market size and growth potential, and whether you will target a niche or a much broader market.

For example, the anticipated revenue for the pool and billiard hall industry in the United States was to reach around $669 million in 2022, showcasing a rise compared to the forecasted value from the preceding year.

Competitive Analysis

Identify and analyze your direct and indirect competitors. Identify their strengths and weaknesses, and describe what differentiates your pool hall business from them. Point out how you have a competitive edge in the market.

Market Trends

Analyze emerging trends in the industry, such as technology disruptions, changes in customer behavior or preferences, etc. Explain how your business will cope with all the trends.

Regulatory Environment

List regulations and licensing requirements that may affect your pool hall business, such as business licensing, health & safety regulations, alcohol licensing, etc.

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your pool hall business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your services

Mention the pool hall services your business will offer. This list may include services like:

• Pool game rentals
• Tournaments and leagues
• Membership programs
• Private events and parties
• Instruction and coaching

Quality measures

This section should explain how you maintain quality standards and consistently provide the highest quality service.

This may include table maintenance, equipment quality, cleanliness & hygiene, ambiance, etc.

In short, this section of your pool hall plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Define your business’s USPs depending on the market you serve, the equipment you use, and the unique services you provide. Identifying USPs will help you plan your marketing strategies.

USPs of Cue Haven

What makes Cue Haven truly unique is our dynamic events calendar, featuring themed nights, tournaments, and exclusive competitions, ensuring that every visit is an engaging and diverse experience.

We take pride in offering premium equipment meticulously maintained to the highest standards, guaranteeing a consistently excellent gaming experience.

Our customer-focused membership program goes beyond discounts, offering exclusive benefits like priority booking, access to members-only events, and personalized services, fostering a strong sense of community.

At Cue Haven, we integrate live entertainment seamlessly, making us not just a pool hall but a multifaceted entertainment venue catering to a broader audience.

With an innovative online reservation system, gourmet snacks, dedicated instruction services, and a commitment to safety and cleanliness, Cue Haven stands as the ultimate destination for pool enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated and unforgettable experience.

Pricing Strategy

Describe your pricing strategy—how you plan to price your services and stay competitive in the local market. You can mention any discounts you plan on offering to attract new customers to your business.

Marketing Strategies

Discuss your marketing strategies to market your services. You may include some of these marketing strategies in your business plan—social media marketing, brochures, email marketing, content marketing, and print marketing.

Sales Strategies

Outline the strategies you’ll implement to maximize your sales. Your sales strategies may include direct sales calls,  partnering with other businesses, offering referral programs, etc.

Overall, this section of your pool hall business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your pool hall business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & Training

Mention your business’s staffing requirements, including the number of employees or trainers needed. Include their qualifications, the training required, and the duties they will perform.

Operational Process

Outline the processes and procedures you will use to run your pool hall business. Your operational processes may include table allocation, customer services, membership services, etc.

Include the list of equipment required for the pool hall, such as pool tables, cues, racks, POS system, reservation system, etc.

Explain how these help you maintain quality standards and improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your pool hall business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founders/CEO

Mention the founders and CEO of your pool hall business and describe their roles and responsibilities in successfully running the business.

Key managers

Introduce your management and key members of your team, and explain their roles and responsibilities. For example,

Key managers of Cue Haven

Marketing Director – Alexis Foster:

Alexis Foster serves as the Marketing Director for Cue Haven, spearheading the brand’s positioning and outreach. With a dynamic background in digital marketing and event promotion, Alexis leads the marketing team in creating engaging campaigns, themed events, and promotional activities.

Head of Events and Entertainment – Marcus Turner:

Marcus Turner brings a creative flair to Cue Haven as the Head of Events and Entertainment. With a background in event planning and a passion for creating memorable experiences, Marcus curates an exciting calendar of themed nights, tournaments, and live entertainment.

Head of Customer Experience – Emily Chen:

Emily Chen is the Head of Customer Experience at Cue Haven, overseeing the front-of-house operations and ensuring exceptional service for every visitor. With a background in hospitality and a keen eye for detail, Emily leads the customer service team in providing a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.

Organizational structure

Explain the organizational structure of your management team. Include the reporting line and decision-making hierarchy.

Advisors/Consultants

Mentioning advisors or consultants in your business plans adds credibility to your business idea.

So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your pool hall services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement

Describe details such as projected revenue, operational costs, and service costs in your projected profit and loss statement. Make sure to include your business’s expected net profit or loss.

Cash flow statement

The cash flow for the first few years of your operation should be estimated and described in this section. This may include billing invoices, payment receipts, loan payments, and any other cash flow statements.

Balance Sheet

Create a projected balance sheet documenting your pool hall business’s assets, liabilities, and equity.

Break-even point

Determine and mention your business’s break-even point—the point at which your business costs and revenue will be equal.

This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.

Financing Needs

Calculate costs associated with starting a pool hall business and estimate your financing needs and how much capital you need to raise to operate your business. Be specific about your short-term and long-term financing requirements, such as investment capital or loans.

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the pool hall industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your pool hall business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

This sample pool hall business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful pool hall plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our pool hall business plan pdf .

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you need a pool hall business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful pool hall business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your pool hall business.

How to get funding for your pool hall business?

There are several ways to get funding for your pool hall business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought-after startup options.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location, and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your pool hall business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your pool hall business plan and outline your vision as you have in mind.

What is the easiest way to write your pool hall business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any pool hall business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

How detailed should the financial projections be in my pool hall business plan?

The level of detail of the financial projections of your pool hall business may vary considering various business aspects like direct and indirect competition, pricing, and operational efficiency. However, your financial projections must be comprehensive enough to demonstrate a complete view of your financial performance.

Generally, the statements included in a business plan offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.

What key components should a pool hall business plan include?

The following are the key components your pool hall business plan must include:

• Executive summary
• Business Overview
• Market Analysis
• Products and services
• Sales and marketing strategies
• Operations plan
• Management team
• Financial plan

What's the importance of a marketing strategy in a pool hall business plan?

Marketing strategy is a key component of your pool hall business plan. Whether it is about achieving certain business goals or helping your investors understand your plan to maximize their return on investment—an impactful marketing strategy is the way to do it!

Here are a few pointers to help you understand the importance of having an impactful marketing strategy:

• It provides your business an edge over your competitors.
• It helps investors better understand your business and growth potential.
• It helps you develop products with the best profit potential.
• It helps you set accurate pricing for your products or services.

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How to Start a Pool Hall Business

A pool hall offers a convenient place for people to socialize, relax, and have fun. Most establishments also serve as bars or restaurants. They frequently provide several entertainment options. The wide range of activities in a pool hall helps to make this an interesting opportunity that involves diverse tasks and experiences.

Learn how to start your own Pool Hall Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a Pool Hall Business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Pool Hall Business
• Form your Pool Hall Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Pool Hall Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Pool Hall Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Pool Hall Business
• Get Pool Hall Business Insurance
• Define your Pool Hall Business Brand
• Create your Pool Hall Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your Pool Hall Business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is very important. Read our detailed guide on how to name your business . We recommend checking if the business name you choose is available as a web domain and securing it early so no one else can take it.

Want some help naming your Pool Hall Business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a pool hall business.

You'll need cues, tables, a cash register, and chairs at a minimum. Coin-operated tables frequently sell at prices exceeding $3,000. You can cut costs by purchasing a used unit for $1,200 to $2,800, but remember to test all units thoroughly before buying. Most cues sell for $12 to $45. You'll pay less if you buy them in sets. Cue racks fetch $20 to $130 each.

You could easily spend thousands of dollars on kitchen equipment. If you can't afford expensive commercial appliances or don't have enough space, think about partnering with an adjacent restaurant. You would take orders and accept payments while the restaurant staff prepares food and delivers it at a discounted cost.

What are the ongoing expenses for a Pool Hall Business?

These businesses need a lot of space, so commercial rent will probably cost more than anything else. Numerous lights and machines contribute to substantial electric bills. You'll also need to order bottled beverages, food ingredients, and paper products. 

Other costs include equipment upkeep, marketing, taxes, and staff wages. If you have employees and serve alcohol, plan on spending at least $275 per month on insurance. Owners in some regions must pay nominal table-licensing fees each year. For instance, a hall with 10 tables will spend about $63 on average for table-licensing fees.

Who is the target market?

Pool remains most popular among young men. Many halls enforce minimum ages of 18 or 21. Skilled players are valuable repeat customers, but they mostly just spend money on tables. They may take the game too seriously to eat and drink a lot. Families tend to visit on weekends and buy plenty of food. Some of the most desirable customers are people who celebrate special occasions like birthdays. Couples also eat and drink more than the average patron.

How does a Pool Hall Business make money?

Halls let players rent tables on a per-hour or per-game basis. Some offer passes that provide unlimited access for a month. They often sell, repair, and rent out cues. These establishments also produce revenue with coin-operated equipment like pinball machines and jukeboxes. The majority of the income normally comes from beverage sales.

Rates usually differ depending on the time of day and number of people in a group. An individual might pay $5 to $14 per hour to play pool. One game may cost $0.50, $0.75, or $1. Members typically spend at least $50 per month for unlimited access. While more expensive options exist, most beverages fetch $2 to $8. Meals normally cost under $15. Snack and dessert pricing ranges from $3 to $8.

How much profit can a Pool Hall Business make?

Earnings vary considerably depending on what products and services you offer. Halls attain margins of around 12% when they're well managed.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Consider installing an  ATM so that you'll earn a commission every time someone withdraws cash. This machine also gives players easy access to money, encouraging them to spend more. You could boost revenue by offering pool lessons as well. If you don't have enough time, sell instructional videos, CDs, and books instead. Try to attract both male and female customers. People might buy more drinks and visit your business regularly if they see it as a desirable place to meet dating partners. Additional ideas include:

• Expand your customer base by setting up a pro shop with cues, balls, and accessories.
• Use your website to sell a monthly membership with recurring credit card payments.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your Pool Hall Business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a Pool Hall Business

Special events provide an effective way to attract attention on social networks and local media. Think about scheduling trivia games, movies, tournaments, Halloween parties, or live music performances.

You can use an ID scanner to collect mailing addresses from customers' state identification cards. This gives you an opportunity to send personalized mailings with coupons and news about the latest improvements or events.

If you buy online ads, bid on search terms cautiously. Someone who searches for "Philadelphia pool club" might want to play pool or go swimming — it isn't really clear. Likewise, outdoor signs should use pictures or words that clarify what type of "pool" you offer.

Many halls have "happy hour" to draw in players during the slowest hours. They charge less for drinks as well as tables. You can configure some coin-operated tables to reduce prices at certain times of day.

How to keep customers coming back

A broad variety of menu items and activities will keep players coming back for more. Try to introduce something new from time to time. Ask customers if they'd like to play foosball, air hockey, or arcade games. A simple menu addition can sometimes boost sales. For instance, you could offer french fries with gravy as an alternative to ketchup.

Try to space tables far apart to minimize crowding. Provide seating for people who just want to watch others play pool. If you have coin-operated equipment that doesn't accept bills, make it easy for customers to get change. Most change machines cost over $900, so you might want to handle this task manually at first.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

You might consider running a pool hall if you are a talented player, know the jargon, and understand how the equipment works. Successful businesses usually provide much more than pool tables; this occupation is best for a "jack of all trades" who quickly learns new skills.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a Pool Hall Business?

You can plan on talking to customers, collecting payments, maintaining equipment, and promoting your business. Most halls serve food and drinks as well.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful Pool Hall Business?

It helps if you know how to fix equipment, serve drinks, and cook basic lunch foods. You could also benefit from any experience with event management. To make sure you'd want to run this type of business, try working as an employee in a pool hall or tavern.

What is the growth potential for a Pool Hall Business?

This business has experienced many ups and downs over the years. More upscale halls have appeared in recent decades, but these businesses are often hit hard during economic recessions. The sector has declined in the last five years, according to IBISWorld. Nonetheless, experts believe that it will continue to innovate and grow in the future.

Although many owners focus on one location, it's possible to expand. The Canadian chain known as Dooly's provides a promising example. It began serving customers in New Brunswick over 25 years ago. The business became so popular that it opened 21 additional halls and developed a franchising program within four years.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a Pool Hall Business?

Coin-operated tables have several pros and cons. They tend to cost more and need extra maintenance. The mechanism could fail, putting a table out of service until someone fixes it. Highly sophisticated models must draw electrical power from an outlet or battery. On the other hand, they significantly reduce the need for customer service. You can focus on selling lucrative drinks and merchandise. Patrons also appreciate the flexibility because they don't have to pay for an entire hour when they only want to play one or two games.

Pool halls still have a negative image as dark, dingy places known for drinking, smoking, gambling, and crime. To dispel this notion, always perform thorough cleaning and maintenance. Post appealing photos of the interior on social media and your website. Ask people to leave if they insist on swearing or smoking indoors. It's worth losing a few customers to improve the atmosphere and create an environment where women and casual players feel comfortable.

How and when to build a team

It takes a wide range of skills to provide all of the services that customers desire. You may benefit from hiring an employee as soon as your business opens, especially if you don't have coin-operated tables. PayScale.com reports that  bartenders and snack bar attendants both earn about $8 to $9 per hour on average. Hire people who have positive attitudes, don't get offended too easily, and show genuine interest in the job.

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

How to Make a Business Plan for a Pool Hall

by Jordan Meyers

Published on 1 Jan 2021

A pool hall in a good location, such as an industrial area or business district, can earn in the hundreds of thousands of dollars each year, according to Entrepreneur.com. Offering billiard lessons and pool hall memberships might increase your business income. However, you'll need a solid business plan to help you get started on the road to success.

Explain Your Purpose

Explain the purpose of your business plan, such as to raise money to start or expand your pool hall. Describe the pool hall you wish to open and explain what makes it unique, why you want to open or expand it, and why you think now is a good time to do so. Share why you think your pool hall will succeed in the current market. Prepare a compelling mission statement as well.

Provide Product and Service Details

Explain what your pool hall will offer, including the number of pool tables you will have. List other entertainment options you will offer, such as large-screen televisions or music. If you will serve food and drinks, describe these options as well. Detail how you will arrange the pool tables, food tables and any other seating options you will provide. Describe the lighting and decor. Add any licenses you will need, such as those that allow you to serve food and alcohol. In addition, include any lessons, membership packages or special events you will use to generate revenue.

Share Your Market Analysis

Research the market for a pool hall in your area. For example, if your area doesn't have many pool halls, you might market to adults. If you feel that the area has enough adult-oriented pool halls, analyze the market for one targeted towards teens. Research competitors, including game rooms, nightclubs, bars and taverns, to see which entertainment needs are unmet. Use your research to describe how your establishment will differ and stand out in the market you choose. For instance, you might cater to those who aren't yet of drinking age and want to learn how to play, people who enjoy a certain type of music, or experienced players who have a commitment to and love of the game.

Discuss Your Management Team

Discuss who will manage your pool hall. A successful pool hall requires a manager knows the game and the challenges specific to game rooms, as well as liquor and food services, and customer service. Detail any applicable experience or education your management team has, even if it's in retail, bar establishments or food service rather than specifically in running game rooms. If you will manage the pool hall yourself, include details about your education and experience.

Describe Your Marketing Approach

Include marketing plan details. Large, eye-catching signs draw in visitors, but advertisements in local newspapers and entertainment guides can help as well. Your business might also benefit from a website and social media accounts that share photos of your establishment and provide coupons for pool table usage or food and beverages. You might also send direct-mail advertisements to local residents and use radio and billboard ads to attract customers.

Add Financial Information

Include a range of financial details in your pool hall business plan. List the prices you will charge for pool table usage -- usually pool halls charge by the hour -- and a condensed list of food and beverage prices. If you plan to start a new pool hall, include your start-up costs and projections for income and expenses. If you plan to expand an established business, include profit and loss statements from the last few years. Start-up pool halls should provide projected profit and loss numbers. If you will use your business plan to seek financing, include the amount of money you need for your start-up or expansion project.

How to Make a Business Plan for a Pool Hall

• Small Business
• Business Planning & Strategy
• Making Business Plans
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How to Write an Advertising Brief for an Outdoor Cinema

How to make a business plan for charter buses, starting a bowling alley business.

• How to Write a Business Plan for Churches
• How to Start My Own Pool Hall or Billiards Business

Pool halls primarily attract people who love to indulge in an evening of billiards. If you cater to adults, your establishment likely serves liquor. Some pool halls focus on providing a safe place for teenagers to learn and play the game while socializing with their friends. No matter which market you go after, a business plan helps you create a niche and figure out the financing required to open your pool hall.

List Products and Services

Start by describing the number of pool tables you plan to offer and the pricing, usually set by the hour. Describe the location of the establishment as well as the interior setting, mentioning the types of music you plan to play, the lighting and the seating arrangements. List the beverages and food items you plan to serve and any business, liquor or food licenses your establishment needs to obtain.

Analyze the Market

Analyzing the market starts with identifying nearby competitors, including bars and nightclubs. If you do not plan to sell liquor, research competitors that appeal to teenagers and people who don’t drink, such as game rooms. Explain how your pool hall will differ from other establishments based on the target market you plan to cater to, such as appealing to serious billiards players, teenagers or people who like the music or atmosphere you create. Offering fine liquors as part of your bar offerings or adding big screen televisions to appeal to people who accompany the players are other ideas for creating a niche.

Describe Personnel

Running a pool hall requires a team of people, including a manager and someone to run the cash register. If you sell drinks and food, you also need wait staff, bartenders and cooks. Explain the qualifications you want when hiring these employees in order to make the pool hall a success. If you plan to manage the establishment yourself, explain how your education and experience in other pool halls or bars points to success in running this business.

Develop Marketing Strategies

Drawing people to your establishment requires a clear marketing strategy that includes promotions and press. Your strategy should mention adding signage to your hall that’s visible from the street. Using a website featuring photos of people having fun at your pool hall, advertising in local neighborhood publications and getting fans to like your Facebook page after they play a few rounds are other strategies you need to describe.

Explain Financing Needs

The financial section of your business plan explains how your establishments makes and spends money. Develop several years' worth of projected profit and loss statements that explain where your cash flow comes from, such as charging hourly fees for pool tables and selling drinks or food. The statements also show details on how much it costs to buy equipment, food and liquor as well as leasing space and paying utilities. This section also explains any financing you need from investors to open your pool hall.

• The Finance Resource.com: Free Pool Hall Business Plan
• CBS Los Angeles: Best Pool Halls in Orange County

Nancy Wagner is a marketing strategist and speaker who started writing in 1998. She writes business plans for startups and established companies and teaches marketing and promotional tactics at local workshops. Wagner's business and marketing articles have appeared in "Home Business Journal," "Nation’s Business," "Emerging Business" and "The Mortgage Press," among others. She holds a B.S. from Eastern Illinois University.

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• Resources for Entrepreneurs > Open a Business > Opening a Business

How to Start a Billiard & Pool Hall

Opening a Business

Have you made the decision to start a billiard and pool hall? We provide insights on the mistakes that often entangle fledgling entrepreneurs.

Wondering how to start a billiard and pool hall? We take you step-by-step from start to success.

Pool & Billiards Industry Overview

Once a staple of American life, pool and billiard halls have made a resurgence in recent years. Presently, there are more than 43 million regular billiard players in the U.S.; more than 1 in 8 Americans considers themselves to be a pool player.

But unlike other hobbies, billiards isn't a portable activity. Billiards enthusiasts need a place to practice their game -- and that's where pool or billiard halls come into the picture.

Customer Demographics for Billiard & Pool Hall Startups

From the outset, you'll need to reconcile your startup business plan with the fact that pool halls serve a very specific segment of the marketplace. Although pool players come in all shapes and sizes, the majority are male adults under the age of 35.

Does that mean women won't represent part of your customer base? No -- it's important to consider offering activities for female patrons. But generally speaking, women won't drive traffic to your hall. So you'll need to focus your décor and marketing efforts on things that appeal to a younger male demographic.

Financial Considerations for a New Pool Hall

As your billiard hall begins to take shape, there are several financial factors you'll need to consider. The most important one is the fact that pool halls actually lose money on billiards. Surprised? Most startup billiard entrepreneurs don't realize that the cost of acquiring and maintaining pool tables exceeds billiards revenue.

So to earn a profit, you'll need to develop alternate revenue streams. Most pool halls make a living from the sale of food and alcohol. In fact, alcohol sales are so important that it just doesn't make sense to open a pool hall until you have secured a liquor license.

How to Write an Effective Billiard & Pool Hall Business Plan

It's virtually impossible for your billiard and pool hall to succeed without an effective business plan.

The best business plans are practical documents that reflect actual business realities. To be reliable, your business plan can't include best guesses or intentional exaggerations.

Instead, commit to creating the most precise business plan possible. For more information about billiard and pool hall business plans, take a look at what the experts say about business plan writing .

Talk to the Community

If you're a startup billiard and pool hall owner, you understand how important it is to anchor your new business in the local community. Most billiard and pool halls are local businesses that are marketed to a geographically concentrated customer base. So, early in your startup process, we strongly recommend that you survey nearby customer prospects whether they would buy from a new billiard and pool hall, if one were to open up in the area.

Don't Ignore Competitors

Before you open a billiard and pool hall within your community, it's a smart move to find out how strong the competition is. Use the link below to get a list of local competitors in your city. After following the link, enter your city, state and zip code to get a list of billiard and pool halls in your area.

• Get a List of Nearby Billiard & Pool Halls

Before you open up shop, make sure you know what you will offer to your customers that provides a significant advantage over your competition's offering.

Learning More About the Industry

If you are seriously contemplating launching a billiard and pool hall, it's a wise move to talk to somebody who is already in the business. Local competitors are not going to give you the time of day, mind you. It'd be crazy for them to teach you the business.

Thankfully, an owner of a a billiard and pool hall in a location that is not competitive to you will be much more likely to talk with you, provided that you won't be directly competing with them. In that case, the business owner may be more than happy to discuss the industry with you. If you are persistent, you can find a business mentor who is willing to help you out.

Where can you find a billiard and pool hall manager who is willing to advise you because you live in different cities?

Simple. Let your fingers do the walking by using the link below.

• Find Your Billiard & Pool Hall Mentor

Guidelines for a Billiard & Pool Hall Acquisition

There are a lot of reasons why it may be preferable to acquire a billiard and pool hall instead of starting a new business venture.

An acquisition isn't necessarily a bed of roses. You'll need to thoroughly evaluate the factors involved with buying a business . Right away, you'll want to make sure the business is capable of meeting your ownership expectations.

If the business appears to meet your requirements, you'll need to verify your impressions through broker-assisted due diligence and legal research.

Don't Rule Out Franchising

Purchasing a franchise doesn't guarantee success, but does make everything a lot easier.

Before you consider starting a billiard and pool hall, it's worthwhile to determine whether there are good franchise opportunities available that might be the right move for you.

The link below gives you access to our franchise directory so you can see if there's a franchise opportunity for you. You might even find something that points you in a completely different direction.

• Research Franchising Opportunities

Related Articles on Starting a Company

These additional resources regarding starting a business may be of interest to you.

Free Business Plan Templates

How to Find Start-Up Capital

How to Get a DUNS Number

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Make a Splash in the Pool Hall Industry and Dive into Profits: A Guide to Starting Your Own Business

Related blogs.

• The Secret Behind the Profits: Unveiling the Untold Stories of Pool Halls
• The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Profitable Pool Hall Business: Unleash Your Entrepreneurial Spirit!
• Maximize Your Pool Hall's Potential with essential KPIs

Pool halls have become the most sought-after places for those who love to play pool. The industry has grown significantly over the years and is expected to reach $552 million by 2026 . Pool halls are also becoming popular as hangout spots where people can have fun in a relaxed atmosphere with friends and family. For entrepreneurs, investing in a pool hall business can be a profitable venture. However, starting a pool hall business requires extensive planning and preparation. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 essential steps to take to successfully open a pool hall business.

The key to starting a successful pool hall business is to approach it like any other business. You need to be well-prepared, have a plan, and take every step with the utmost care. Here are the ten essential steps to follow:

• Conduct research – Before you start any business, research is crucial. Understanding the pool hall business industry, its trends, the target audience, and potential competitors will help you make informed decisions.
• Write a business plan – A business plan is the roadmap for your business. It will outline your company's mission, financial projections, and marketing strategy.
• Establish financial model – You need to have a clear understanding of your pool hall business's financials so that you can make informed decisions and plan your finances meticulously.
• Secure funding – Once you have established your financial model, you need to secure funding to start your business. Depending on the amount of capital required, there are many ways to secure funding.
• Find location – The location of your business can make or break your business. It is crucial to find a location with high foot traffic, ample parking, and good visibility.
• Acquire permits and licenses – Depending on your state's regulations, you may need a variety of permits and licenses to open a pool hall business. Make sure to acquire all the necessary paperwork beforehand.
• Hire employees – Workforce is the backbone of any business. Hire staff who are familiar with operating pool tables and have excellent customer service skills to ensure a great customer experience.
• Source materials and equipment – You will need pool tables, pool cues, chalk, balls, and other accessories to run your business. Make sure to source quality equipment to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Promote your business – Marketing your business is crucial to attract potential customers. Use social media, flyers, brochures, advertisements, and other marketing strategies to promote your business.
• Track progress and review results – Keep a track of your business's growth and analyze the results. Identify areas of improvement and take steps to rectify them.

Starting a pool hall business requires careful consideration and attention to detail if you want to avoid potential pitfalls. By following these ten essential steps, you can set your business up for success and be well on your way to operating a thriving pool hall business.

1. Conduct Research

Before starting any business, it is important to conduct thorough research. This will help you understand the market, your competition, and potential challenges you may face. Here are some key areas to research when starting a pool hall business:

• Location: Look for areas with high foot traffic, easy accessibility, and available parking. Consider the demographics of the area and the potential customer base.
• Competition: Research other pool halls in the area. Find out what they offer, their prices, and their strengths and weaknesses. This will help you differentiate your business and create a unique selling proposition.
• Market demand: Determine if there is a demand for pool halls in the area. Research the popularity of billiards and the target audience. Analyze the size of the potential customer base and their spending habits.
• Regulations: Research the local and state regulations regarding starting and running a pool hall business. This may include licensing requirements, zoning laws, and health and safety regulations.
• Costs: Determine the costs involved in starting a pool hall business, including equipment, rent, utilities, staffing, and marketing. Analyze the potential income and create a business plan to determine if the venture is financially viable.

Tips & Tricks:

• Visit other pool halls in different areas to get inspiration and ideas.
• Attend industry events and conferences to network and learn from experts.
• Join industry groups and online forums to connect with other pool hall owners and enthusiasts.

2. Write A Business Plan

A business plan is a roadmap that outlines the goals and strategies of a company for success. It's essential to have a written plan before launching your pool hall business. This plan will help you identify your target audience, set performance benchmarks, and anticipate challenges that may arise. Here's how you can create a business plan for your pool hall business:

• Executive Summary - This is a brief overview of your business plan that will provide investors, lenders, or potential partners with a snapshot of your business's concept, target market, and projected financials.
• Business Description - This section will describe your pool hall business concept, the type of services offered, the amenities provided, and what sets your business apart from the competition.
• Market Analysis - This section should identify your target customers' demographic, competition analysis, market size, and target location. Research the area you plan to operate to ensure that there is a sufficient demand for the services you provide.
• Service or Product Line - The service or product line details what you're selling and how it benefits your customers. Explain your business's unique selling proposition and highlight the amenities that would differentiate your pool hall business from others.
• Sales and Marketing - This section should explain how you will generate revenue, the strategies you'll use to promote your business, the channels that you'll use for distribution, and how you'll make sales. Determine how you will communicate with your customers and establish a sales strategy that aligns with your business goals.
• Operational Strategy - This section should highlight your company's operations, including the location of your pool hall business, the layout, lease agreements, equipment required, and staffing needs. Identify how your employees will help achieve business goals, create detailed job descriptions, and establish realistic hiring timelines and performance benchmarks.
• Financial Planning - The financial planning section is a crucial component of your business plan. It should contain financial projections, cash flow statements, and a detailed breakdown of your startup costs, operational costs, and revenue forecasts.
• Management Team - Your management team typically includes your hiring managers, executives, and department heads. This section should highlight the experience, skills, and background that makes them qualified to lead your pool hall business.
• Risk Assessment - Identify potential challenges and risks that could impact your business operations, such as increased competition or unexpected costs. Outline contingency plans and strategies for overcoming these risks.
• Research competition - Study your competitors to figure out their strengths and weaknesses. This research will help you position your pool hall business to stand out from the market competition.
• Keep your projections realistic - Make sure your financial projections are accurate and achievable. Unreasonable projections can cause your business's failure, so keep them grounded in reality.
• Invite feedback - Share your pool hall business plan with trusted advisors and potential partners to gather feedback and refine your ideas. Inviting feedback can help you identify areas of improvement and refine your business plan.

A sound business plan is critical to the success of your pool hall business. It's the foundation upon which you will build your business. Take the time to research, challenge your assumptions, and refine your ideas before you finalize your plan, and once the plan is in place, stay the course and monitor your progress regularly.

3. Establish Financial Model

Starting a pool hall business involves developing a financial model that will guide your decision-making processes. A financial model will help you identify the cost of starting up, running and growing your business. Here are the key components you should include in your financial model:

• Cost of assets: This includes the cost of leasing or purchasing a building, tables, chairs, kitchen equipment, and any other equipment you need to run your pool hall business.
• Fixed costs: This includes expenses such as rent, utilities, insurance, salaries, and other operational expenses that are constant and do not vary with sales volume.
• Variable costs: This includes expenses that vary as your sales volume changes, such as cost of goods sold, marketing, and maintenance.
• Revenue projections: This involves forecasting your potential income based on your pricing strategy, location, target market, and competition.
• Breakeven analysis: This involves calculating the point at which your total revenue equals your total costs, and you start making a profit.

Once you have these components, you can use them to develop your financial statements, including your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement.

• Use industry benchmarks to help you with your financial projections. You can find these benchmarks from industry associations or through research.
• Think about your pricing strategy carefully. Make sure you have a good margin that covers your costs and makes a profit.
• Consider seeking the advice of a financial expert, such as an accountant or financial consultant. They can help you identify areas where you can save costs and optimize your financial model.

Remember, your financial model will be a living document that you will update regularly. It's essential to keep track of your actual financial performance and compare it to your projections. You can use this information to make adjustments to your operation that will help you achieve your business goals.

4. Secure Funding

One of the significant concerns in opening a pool hall business is the cost of starting it. You will need specific equipment and essentials to get your business up and running smoothly. This is where the process of securing funding comes into the picture.

• Research on various finances: Look for various financial institutions, banks, and investors to start your funding process. Start with checking out small business grants available in your locality by contacting local economic development organizations (EDOs).
• Consider alternative financing options: A few exceptional alternatives could include crowdfunding through online platforms like Kickstarter, applying for a personal loan, or borrowing from family/friends. Determine viable options that you qualify for, and start applying for funding that suffices your cause.
• Prepare detailed documentation: Once you comprehend the appropriate source of funds for your pool hall business, make sure all the documentation protocols are completed. It typically involves collecting documents like tax forms, credit history, business plan, and financial statements.<

Financing Tips & Tricks:

• Be open with your lender and investors regarding your plans and financial expectations. Transparency is an essential attribute to helping you secure the funds you need.
• Start small when you begin your venture. It may be easier to get smaller loans or funding to get started, and as you grow, you may qualify for more substantial funding options.
• Take the time to research and plan for as many expenses as possible when creating your financial plan. This way, you can apply for funding for things you didn't plan on upfront, such as marketing costs.

Once you have the funding in place, you can start organizing the launch of your pool hall business. However, it's important to remember that securing funding should be an ongoing process. It's vital to keep track of your finances, ensure you're staying on budget, and have reserves in case of emergencies and unexpected expenses.

5. Find Location

Finding the perfect location for your pool hall business is crucial for its success. Here are the steps to follow:

• Conduct market research to identify the potential areas with high demand for pool halls.
• Look for a location with easy accessibility and high visibility.
• Consider the parking availability for customers.
• Check zoning requirements to ensure the location fits the regulations for a pool hall business.
• Compare the rent rates and terms of different locations before making a final decision.

Tips & Tricks

• Choose a location near other entertainment options like bowling alleys, bars, or movie theaters to attract more customers.
• Consider renting a facility and modifying it to suit your needs, rather than building a new one from scratch, to save on startup costs.
• Don't forget to negotiate the lease terms to ensure the best deal possible for your business.

Once you have selected a location, it's time to start planning the layout of your pool hall. Stay tuned for the next step in the checklist.

6. Acquire Permits And Licensess

Acquiring the necessary permits and licenses is an important step in opening a pool hall. Regulations vary by state and local jurisdiction, so make sure you research the specific requirements for your area. Failure to obtain the proper permits and licenses can result in hefty fines or even the closure of your business.

• Business License: Most cities and counties require a general business license. This license allows you to operate your business within the jurisdiction and confirms that you have met the legal requirements to do so.
• Building Permit: If you're planning on making any structural changes or renovations to your building, you may need a building permit. This ensures that the work meets local safety and zoning regulations.
• Liquor License: If you plan on serving alcohol on your premises, you will need a liquor license. This process can be complicated and time-consuming, so be sure to plan accordingly.
• Health Department Permit: You will need a permit from your local health department to operate a restaurant or food-service business. This ensures that your kitchen and food-handling practices meet health and safety standards.
• Gambling Permit: If your pool hall includes any type of gambling, such as a poker table, you will need a gambling permit.
• Research the specific regulations and requirements for your area before applying for permits and licenses.
• Build relationships with local officials and regulators to ensure a smoother permitting process.
• Consider hiring a professional permit expediter to help navigate the process.

Acquiring the necessary permits and licenses can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, it is an important step in ensuring your pool hall is operating legally and has the necessary approvals to succeed.

7. Hire Employees

Once you've got your pool hall business up and running, it's time to start hiring. But before you start handing out job applications, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Hiring the right employees is critical to the success of your business. The following steps will help guide you through the hiring process:

• 1. Determine Your Needs: Before you start hiring, determine what positions you need to fill. Will you need bartenders, servers, or cleaners? How many employees will you need in each position?
• 2. Write a Detailed Job Description: Clearly define what each position entails. Detail the responsibilities, qualifications, and experience required for each job.
• 3. Advertise for Open Positions: Advertise your job openings through job boards, social media, and local newspapers. You could also put signs up in your pool hall or hand out flyers at local colleges.
• 4. Screen Candidates: When you receive resumes, screen them carefully. Shortlist the best candidates based on qualifications, experience, and other criteria you deem necessary for each position.
• 5. Conduct Interviews: Set up interviews with the shortlisted candidates, either in person or via phone or video conference. Ask open-ended questions to learn more about the candidate's personality, work experience, and qualifications.
• 6. Check References: Always follow up by checking the references of potential employees. Ask the candidate's previous employer about their performance, reliability, and work ethic.
• 7. Make a Job Offer: Once you've identified the candidate you want to hire, make a formal job offer. Include the key details such as salary, working hours, start date, and any benefits or perks they might receive.
• 8. Train Your New Employees: Once you've brought on new hires, make sure they receive the necessary training. Teach them about the company culture, pool hall policies, and procedures.

Tips & Tricks for Hiring Employees:

• Consider hiring part-time staff to start with, so you can adjust the workforce according to your needs.
• Perform a background check on potential employees to avoid unfortunate surprises later on.
• Always ask candidates relevant questions that will give you insights into their job suitability.

By following these steps, you'll be able to hire the right people for your pool hall business and avoid any potential headaches down the line. Remember, your employees are the backbone of your business, so invest in them wisely.

8. Source Materials & Equipments

The success of your pool hall business depends on the quality of your materials and equipments, which will affect the playing experience of your customers. You need to find and source the best materials and equipments to provide an exceptional playing experience. Here are some of the things you need to consider:

• Pool Tables: The most important piece of equipment in a pool hall is the pool table. You need to find high-quality tables that are designed to provide a smooth and consistent playing surface. Make sure that you buy pool tables from reputable manufacturers that use durable materials. You should also consider the size of your pool hall and available space when deciding the number of pool tables to purchase.
• Cues and Balls: To get the best playing experience, you need to have high-quality pool cues and balls. Cues come in different sizes and weights, so it’s important to have a variety for your customers to choose from. Keep balls clean and replace them when necessary, so your customers can have the best playing experience.
• Lighting: Pool tables require proper lighting that illuminates the table evenly without casting shadows. Proper lighting is critical, as it can affect the accuracy of shots. Consider investing in high-quality lighting to ensure that your customers have the best playing experience.
• Furniture: In addition to the pool tables, you need to have comfortable furniture for your customers to sit and relax. Invest in chairs, tables, and couches that are comfortable and durable.
• Audio/Visual Equipment: Players enjoy having access to music and other entertainment while they play. Invest in high-quality audio and visual equipment, so your customers can engage in a fully immersive gaming experience.
• Snack and Drinks: Most pool halls serve snacks and drinks to their customers. You need to have an inventory of snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages to offer your customers. You can also provide a vending machine with snacks and drinks to supplement your inventory.
• Bathroom and Cleaning Supplies: Keeping your pool hall clean and hygienic is important. You need to have a variety of cleaning supplies, including brooms, mops, disinfectants, and paper towels. Also, ensure that you have a clean and well-maintained bathroom facility for your customers.
• Consider buying used pool tables, balls, and cues to save money, just make sure they are in good condition. You can always replace the felt if necessary.
• Choose a variety of games to offer your customers, such as darts, foosball, or ping pong to increase customer engagement.
• Create an online presence through social media and website, to get potential customers and attract them to your pool hall business.

9. Promote Your Business

1. Social Media Promotion: Create pages on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and share pictures, videos, and updates about your pool hall. These platforms provide excellent opportunities to reach out to customers directly and engage with them.

• Use high-quality images and videos to showcase your pool hall's atmosphere and activities.
• Engage with your customers by responding to their queries and feedback regularly.
• Offer discounts, freebies, and promotions on social media to increase customer engagement and drive traffic to your pool hall.

2. Local Advertising: Promote your business in your local community by using local newspapers, radio, billboards, or flyers. Target potential customers who are likely to visit your pool hall.

3. Events and Contests: Host events and contests regularly to attract new customers to your pool hall. You can organize pool tournaments, DJ nights, and karaoke events to keep your customers engaged and entertained.

4. Loyalty Programs: Offer loyalty programs to your regular customers to keep them coming back to your pool hall. Reward them for each visit or refer-a-friend.

5. Email Marketing: Build an email list and send newsletters, promotions, and updates about your pool hall to your customers' inboxes. This creates a direct line of communication with them and can lead to repeat visits.

6. Google My Business: Create a Google My Business listing for your pool hall to appear in local search results and attract more customers. Make sure to provide accurate information such as opening hours, location, and contact details.

7. Influencer Marketing: Collaborate with influencers in the pool hall and entertainment industry to reach a wider audience. You could offer them free access to your pool hall for a review or promotion.

8. Referral Programs: Encourage your customers to refer their friends and family members to your pool hall by offering them discounts or freebies. This is an effective way to acquire new customers at a low cost.

9. Local Partnerships: Partner with local bars, restaurants, and businesses to cross-promote each other's services. This increases your visibility and can lead to joint events or promotions.

10. Branding: Design a strong brand identity for your pool hall, including a logo, color scheme, and marketing materials such as flyers and brochures. This creates a memorable impression on your potential customers.

10. Track Progress & Review Results:

Now that your pool hall business is up and running, it's important to track your progress and review your results on a regular basis. Here are some key steps to help you stay on track:

• Set specific goals: Identify what you want to achieve and establish measurable goals. This will help you stay focused and motivated.
• Keep detailed records: Track your financials, including income, expenses, and profits. Also, keep records of customer feedback and any operational issues that arise.
• Analyze your data: Regularly review your progress against your goals. Look for trends and patterns that can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Make adjustments: Use the data you've collected to make adjustments to your business as needed. This could include changing your marketing strategy, adjusting your pricing, or making changes to your menu or services.
• Stay organized: Keep all your records and data in a centralized location that's easily accessible and organized. This will make it easier to review and analyze your progress.
• Use software tools to help automate your record-keeping and analysis. This can save you time and help you spot trends more easily.
• Regularly review your financials to ensure that you're on track to meet your goals. If you're falling short, make adjustments to your business model as needed.
• Consider hiring a professional accountant or consultant to help you review and analyze your data more effectively.

By tracking your progress and reviewing your results on a regular basis, you'll be better equipped to make the right changes to your business and ensure your long-term success.

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Starting a Pool Hall in 2024 – How to Execute and Make Money

Last Updated January 5th, 2024

Playing pool can become a passion that becomes a significant part of your life, a game you’ll enjoy playing for years.

What starts as a hobby can quickly become a serious pursuit as your game progresses and you test yourself against better players. The weekly trip to your local pool hall suddenly becomes a ritual, and you develop friendships and become part of a community.

Sometimes, that community loses its home, and as pool halls close or owners sell up and move away, there comes a time when you either look for another pool hall or want to start your own. It’s a daunting task, but one that can be rewarding for both you and your community.

Why Communities Need Pool Halls

Pool is a social game ideal for building relationships, and fulfilling that competitive drive. It’s inexpensive to play, fairly easy to grasp, and can be a great way to stay active regardless of your fitness level.

Not everyone can afford a pool table, and if they could, it’s often the case that they don’t have enough space. A local pool hall is a perfect place to hone your billiards skills, play against like-minded opponents, and spend time socializing.

If you’ve never played pool before, a pool hall is often the only place you can play, so it’s essential to have access to tables in a safe environment.

How to Start a Pool Hall

Unless you’re taking over an existing pool hall and simply need to transfer everything into your name, there’s a fair bit to do before you open the doors for the first time.

While a pool hall adds value to the community and is something you’re passionate about, it’s still a business and needs to be run as one.

Assuming you’re starting from scratch, you’ll need to:

• Find a location that’s suitable, accessible, and big enough for your needs
• Conduct market research, check for issues, local competition, demand, etc
• Generate or find funding, either from a bank or friends
• Create a business plan with expectations, innovations, and realistic targets
• Open up a business bank account
• Register the name of your business
• Ensure you’ve got the proper licenses and permits, especially when serving alcohol
• Create or pay for a website to ensure your pool hall has an online presence
• Create advertising campaigns to ensure your target audience knows you’re there, and create leaflets and posters to advertise your new pool hall

Before you’ve even turned on the table lights, you’ll have had to have put in a load of work and time to get your pool hall up and running. The days of dark, smoky pool halls are a thing of the past, or should be.

Your target audience should be families, young players, old players, new players, pro players, and everything in between. The bigger your target audience and the more inviting your pool hall is, the more success you’ll have.

Finding the right location is critical to your success. You’ll pay more for prime real estate, but you need to be close to your customers. Families won’t want to travel hours for a game of pool, and this decision can make or break your new business.

Look for room to expand, ensure the tables are well lit, and that there’s access to food and drinks. Your permits need to be perfect and the hygiene of your pool hall immaculate for your business to thrive.

A brightly lit, safe, fun pool hall that’s open to all will create a community that will remain loyal. You’re providing a service to your local community as well as running a business, and going hand-in-hand, your community will keep your new business afloat during any lean times.

As well as serving alcohol, why not have a food menu too? If you’ve ever been to a bowling alley, you’ll see the difference; brightly lit, family-orientated games where the food and drink flow. Not only does that encourage more patrons, but it also increases the financial benefits of running your pool hall.

Raising Funds for Your Pool Hall

A pool hall can be a thriving, successful business, but it does take a fair bit of starting capital to get off the ground. Buying or renting property, and acquiring equipment such as pool tables and lighting isn’t cheap. These assets must also be maintained regularly.

You should always speak to a financial advisor when undertaking a new business venture, and an advisor can help you develop the relevant business plan with which to approach a bank. Banks want to lend money, as it’s in their interest to do so, but your business model must be solid.

Walking into your local bank and asking for cash because you’re the best nine-ball player in the area, and a sure-fire winner, won’t cut it! You need projected expenses and income, advertising plans, property rental, permits, electricity costs, liability and insurance, and staff costs, and your bank will need to see all of this in a cohesive plan.

The quicker your pool hall becomes a success, the faster you’ll be able to repay any loans, so before you open the doors, you’ll need to make sure you’re ready for your customers. Once through the door, you need excellent record-keeping to make the most of your customers.

Accounting and Records

Your customers are your lifeline and, as such, should be treated as the most valuable resource you have. Keeping records is a must for a pool hall, and you can keep records of how many active players you have.

Keeping records allows you to collect email addresses, which you can use to send out communications to lapsed customers, inviting them back with discounts or upcoming events. Every sale, every repair, and every income and expenditure should be recorded for tax purposes to ensure you’re meeting every regulation.

Advertising Your Pool Hall

The famous movie line “If you build it, he will come” may have worked for Kevin Costner, but your business will be a non-starter without proper advertising.

Once you’ve found the perfect location, sourced the funding to buy the pool tables and seating areas, and ensured there’s enough in the bank to cover table repairs and other expenses, it’s time to spread the word.

A website is a must, and could even incorporate a booking system to ensure families can book a table and guarantee they’ll get the table time they want. Your site should be kept up to date with tournaments you’re running, food menus, pricing, and anything else your customers need to know.

Local advertising is also a must—from posters to leaflet drops. You need to keep people in the loop to ensure a steady stream of customers. Ensure you keep running advertising campaigns to bring in fresh players. Your business will only grow as the community of pool players grows.

Staffing Your Pool Hall

One of the essential responsibilities of opening a pool hall is finding the right staff to ensure your players and customers have the best experience while there. Good staff can be worth their weight in gold, especially if they also have a keen interest in pool.

Local advertising should allow you to find staff, and as pool halls are often open from early in the day until very late at night, you’ll need a team who can run multiple shifts. Kitchen staff, chefs, and bar staff need training, insuring, and monitoring.

While it may be tempting to do everything yourself at the start to save on expenses, the right impression is everything. If new customers see the owner cleaning the tables, cooking the food, and serving at the bar all at once, the impression won’t be great.

Delegation is the key to success and will allow you to focus on generating business, keeping customers satisfied, and, perhaps most importantly, keeping the money flowing in.

Do Pool Halls Make Money?

A pool hall will average between 10% and 30% profit annually, with the average being around 20% profit. What you do with that profit also affects your bottom line. If you take out your pool hall’s profit, that’s fine, but you could also reinvest it to increase future profits.

Pool halls, like any other business, need careful nurturing in order to make a profit. Opening up your own pool hall might take time to make you significant amounts, but profit is certainly possible. And if you’ve found out how to delegate properly, you can potentially be mostly hands-off while running your business.

Several factors will determine how profitable a pool hall is, including your ability to run it as a business rather than a play thing. Profitability, or the lack of it, stems from your initial business plan. Your pool hall needs:

• A good location that sees a lot of traffic
• Space for enough tables that you’re constantly generating income
• Excellent staff that keeps the pool hall running efficiently for you
• Excellent advertising to promote new business coming in
• Additional incentives, such as food, drink, and pool tournaments

If your record keeping is excellent, and you’ve incorporated a website, making use of technology to create a membership option will ensure a steady stream of revenue. Building the community through pool tournaments and even lessons for kids, you can always find revenue streams to increase profits.

A pool hall with excellent food and drink will increase public interest, build relationships, and can be an even more profitable enterprise than the pool tables! Keeping paying customers inside is vital, so being able to grab a beer or order a meal will prevent your customers from spending their hard-earned cash somewhere else.

With the average pool hall generating between $50,000 and $200,000 per year, there’s no reason why you can’t make it profitable. 

A pool hall with a great atmosphere will encourage players to take better care of the tables, which can reduce costs. But, you’ll still need to keep the pool hall equipped with quality tables, cues, lighting, and pool balls, to promote a good reputation.

Pool Hall Ownership – The Good and Bad

There’s a lot to think about when opening up a pool hall, and it can be incredibly rewarding as you can become a focal point for your community.

Pool hall ownership has several benefits – you’ll be able to:

• Run your own business
• Work somewhere you enjoy going every day
• Impact your community in a significant way
• Earn enough to live a happy life
• Build a brand that you can be proud of

There are potential drawbacks to owning a pool hall as well. You’ll be kept very busy, and the buck stops with you at the end of the day. On top of the added responsibility, you must also consider the following:

• You’ll have to monitor income and expenditure constantly
• You’ll have to do the work yourself if your staff can’t cope
• Hiring and firing is your job
• It’s more than a full-time job
• You’ll have to deal with losses
• You must constantly improve and evolve to ensure a successful business model
• You can’t spend all day playing pool and drinking with your buddies
• It’s hard work until the business is running smoothly

As with any business, there are pros and cons, but if you love pool, see an opening in your community for a great pool hall, and you’re keen on running your own business, it could be the best decision you’ll ever make.

Starting your own pool hall takes careful planning and constant care, but it can be a rewarding and exciting experience that could change your life. Running a pool hall is a solid idea for anyone who loves pool and is business savvy. Pool can be great for the community as it fosters relationships and brings locals together.

With the cost of living and entertainment rising, pool remains an affordable game for most people. Providing a safe, clean, and fun environment for players of all ages to enjoy the great game of pool, you’ll be learning as you earn.

You’ll become manager, bartender, painter, treasurer, advertising guru, and tournament organizer, and that’s just on weekends! If you have a family, it can quickly become a family business, with table after table generating income, a bar showing live sports, and an eating area that keeps your pool players returning week after week.

If that sounds like the ideal dream, it’s probably because it is. Don’t be fooled; it’ll be hard work, but once running smoothly, you could have the best pool hall in the area, with a sound business model and a bright future.

As always, Happy Shooting!

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Pool Hall Business Plan

Written by Elma Steven | Updated on April, 2024

How Do I Write the Pool Hall Business Plan?

Pool Hall Business Plan is an outline of your overall pool hall business. The business plan should includes a 5 year financial projection, marketing plan, industry analysis, organizational overview, operational overview and finally an executive summary. Remember to write your executive summary at the end as it is considered as a snapshot of the overall business plan. You need to be careful while writing the plan as you need to consider various factors that can impact the business’s success.

You can spend 3 to 4 weeks trying to write your own Business Plan by browsing through free online resources or hire a professional writer for $2,000. There is a better way to do this-  Download our Pool Hall Business Plan to write a plan in just 2 days . Just Fill Up & Print!

Take a deep dive into pool hall business profitability using our calculator and perfume business financial model. Check out- Is Pool Hall Business Profitable?

Table of Contents

Executive summary.

In the heart of Miami’s exciting entertainment sector lies the cutting-edge pool hall Eight Ball Haven which was created by Jordan Ramirez. In addition to providing high-quality billiard tables for both social and competitive play, hosting leagues and tournaments for players of varying skill levels and providing other forms of entertainment such as darts and arcade games our principal offerings include a broad spectrum of activities. Our extensive bar and restaurant which includes a variety of drinks and a menu of skillfully created foods is the perfect complement to our gaming offerings. Our mission is to provide pool fanatics and casual guests with an unforgettable experience at our establishment.

Mission : Our mission is to become Miami’s go-to billiards destination, a place where people can come to unwind, make new friends and enjoy themselves.

Vision: Our Vision is to become an iconic venue in the Miami nightlife scene, celebrated for its world-class pool complex, lively ambiance and dedication to providing quality service to each and every one of our guests.

Industry Overview:

The business has a long and storied history making it an important part of the country’s entertainment landscape. While its popularity has waxed and waned over the years it has recently seen a revival because to the increasing interest in billiards and the broad popularity of social gaming.

Check out this guide on  how to write an executive summary?  If you don’t have the time to write on then you can use this  custom Executive Summary Writer  to save Hrs. of your precious time.

Financial Highlights

Revenue & earnings.

Cost of Goods Sold & Expenses

Break- Even Analysis

Investments or Fund Usage Plan

Business Description

Business Name: Eight Ball Haven

Founders: Jordan Ramirez

Management Team

Legal Structure: LLC

Location: Miami

Goals & Objectives:

✔️ Establish Brand Identity : In the first year, “Eight Ball Haven” will become a household name in the Miami nightlife community synonymous with high standards of entertainment and a warm inviting vibe.

✔️ Customer Experience Enhancement : Maintaining high-quality equipment and providing a clean, safe and appealing space can help you reach your goal of a 90% customer satisfaction rating by the end of the first year.

✔️ Community Engagement: Develop a devoted client base by developing a community around the pool hall. This involves interacting with consumers via social media and local advertising as well as holding regular events like leagues and tournaments.

✔️ Revenue Targets : Maintain a continuous increase in monthly income aiming to surpass quarterly goals. Boosting foot traffic, holding events and offering pricier food and drinks are all great ways to do this.

✔️ Diversify Offerings: During the first 18 months you should aim to increase the variety of offerings. This might be done via the introduction of new games the provision of pool instruction or the holding of themed events.

✔️ Partnerships and Sponsorships: By the end of the second year you should have partnered with local companies and sought sponsorship from relevant brands to improve exposure and enhance the consumer experience.

Services: 

✔️ Open Pool Play: Offer a number of high-quality pool tables available for open play. Customers can pay by the hour or game to enjoy leisurely play or practice.

✔️ Pool Leagues and Tournaments: Maintain a schedule of leagues and tournaments to draw in serious players. Some examples of such events include weekly league evenings and special tournaments with rewards.

✔️ Private Events and Parties: Provide space and services for private events such as birthday parties, corporate events or group gatherings. This can include reserved tables, catering services and personalized event planning.

✔️ Pool Lessons and Workshops: Provide pool instruction for players of all skill levels led by seasoned pros. Techniques, rules and tactics are only some of the topics that may be covered at workshops dedicated to the game.

✔️ Food and Beverage Service: An all-inclusive bar and kitchen serving a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with a menu of standard bar and snack fare.

✔️ Billiards Equipment: Sell all the necessary billiards equipment including cues, cases, balls, chalk, gloves and more. This appeals to both serious players who desire to own their equipment and casual players wishing to better their skills.

✔️ Branded Merchandise: Develop a line of branded merchandise such as t-shirts hats and hoodies featuring your pool hall’s logo or unique designs. This can help promote your brand and serve as a keepsake for visitors.

✔️ Food and Beverages: Provide customers with a wide selection of cuisine, from quick bites like nachos and wings to more substantial fare like burgers and sandwiches. Beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic should be included.

✔️ Pool Instructional Books and DVDs : Provide resources for learning how to play pool to individuals who are interested in doing so. Books and videos that provide instructional commentary from pros are one option.

✔️ Gift Cards : Sell gift cards that customers can purchase for friends or family. These can be used for playing time, food and beverage or merchandise purchases.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas is a high-level overview of the business model. It can also be considered as the business model map in the overall plan. A company idea’s complexities may be mapped out, analyzed and communicated with the use of the canvas. It shows the whole picture of a company’s value creation, delivery, and capture processes. It helps new business owners hone their ideas, encourage creative thinking and make sound strategic decisions. It’s a helpful resource for coming up with ideas, organizing plans and presenting business models to key players. Check out  100 samples of business model canvas .

it offers a clear lens into a company’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This self-awareness enables effective resource allocation and strategic positioning against competitors. Businesses can mitigate risks, make informed decisions, and set realistic goals. In addition, presenting a SWOT analysis in a business plan communicates to stakeholders that the company possesses a deep understanding of its market environment. In essence, SWOT ensures a business’s strategy is grounded in reality enhancing its chances of success. Check out the  100 SWOT samples  which will give you a better idea on SWOT writing process.

Marketing Plan

The marketing plan has five main sections. These sections are marketing budget, marketing channels, GTM or Go To Market Strategy and brand management. The marketing budget will explain how much you plan to spend on promotions and what will be the proportion of spending across the channels. The marketing channels section will talk about how you plan to use each of the promotional channels. The GTM strategy can be considered as the short term version of promotional channels section where you explain how you plan to penetrate the market using the channels at the beginning. Finally, brand management is the longer term version of the promotional channels section where you explain how you plan to enhance brand awareness, recognition and brand recalls amongst your target market.

Promotional Channels

Social Media Marketing – $15,000 (30%):

✔️ Platform Focus : Concentrate on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok showcasing the lively atmosphere of your pool hall, special events and promotions.

✔️ Paid Ads: Use targeted advertising to reach local residents, pool enthusiasts and social groups.

✔️ Content Strategy : Regular posts featuring your pool tables, special events food and drink specials and customer experiences.

Website and SEO – $10,000 (20%)

✔️ Website Development : Build an interesting and straightforward website to promote your establishment’s offerings and upcoming activities.

✔️ Blog Content: Include articles on pool tips, event recaps and local community news to drive organic traffic.

✔️ SEO: Focus on local SEO methods to appear in searches linked to entertainment, pool halls and leisure activities in Miami.

Email Marketing – $5,000 (10%)

✔️ Newsletter : Develop a regular newsletter to update subscribers on upcoming events, league information and special offers.

✔️ Segmentation: Tailor content for different audience segments such as league players, casual visitors and event planners.

Local Partnerships – $7,000 (14%)

✔️ Community Events: Collaborate with local businesses and events for cross-promotion.

✔️ Local Sports Teams Sponsorship: Collaborate with nearby sports organizations to spread the word.

Influencer and Local Celebrity Collaborations – $6,000 (12%):

✔️Collaborations: Work with local influencers or celebrities to host events or promote your pool hall.

✔️ Sponsorship Deals: Offer your space for local events or team sponsorships in exchange for exposure.

Direct Mail and Local Advertising – $4,000 (8%)

✔️ Direct Mail: Send promotional materials to local residences and businesses.

✔️ Local Media: Advertise in local newspapers, magazines and community radio stations.

Referral Program – $3,000 (6%)

✔️ Referral Program: Implement a referral program where customers get benefits for bringing in new patrons.

✔️ Loyalty Program: Create a loyalty program offering discounts or free plays to frequent visitors.

Brand Management

Social Media Marketing

✔️ Brand Voice and Visual Identity: Create a brand language that people can relate to by emphasizing the pool hall’s welcoming atmosphere, active customer base and high standards. Showcase your establishment, events and memorable experiences with consistent images.

✔️ User-Generated Content: Invite guests to write reviews and mention your venue on social media. Repost these tales to boost authenticity and community vibe.

✔️ Live Events: Stream live tournaments or special events and host Q&A sessions with pool professionals or local celebrities who frequent your hall.

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) and Local SEO

✔️ Ad Copy: Features like as high-quality pool tables, a wide variety of entertainment alternatives and distinctive food and drink offerings should be highlighted to attract customers to your establishment.

✔️ Website Optimization: Ensure your website is engaging, mobile-friendly and optimized for search engines with relevant keywords such as “pool hall,” “billiards” and “Miami nightlife.”

✔️ Google My Business: Keep your listing updated with photos, events and contact information to improve local search visibility.

Email Marketing

✔️ Newsletter: Share updates about upcoming events, league information, special offers and highlights from recent tournaments or events.

✔️ Segmentation: Customize emails for different audiences such as league players, casual guest and event planners.

Local Partnerships and Sponsorships:

✔️ Local Events: Sponsor a local sports team, charity event or link up with other local companies for cross-promotion.

✔️ Collaboration with Bars and Restaurants: Work with nearby establishments for mutual promotion or event hosting.

Content Marketing

✔️ Educational Content: Make some movies or write some articles regarding pool strategies, upkeep and the game’s origins.

✔️ Behind-the-Scenes Content: Highlight local events, customer experiences and community activities by sharing images and anecdotes from your hall.

Go To Market Strategy

Online Presence and Community Engagement

✔️ Professional Website: Launch a website with a user-friendly layout, presenting your pool hall’s features, event calendar and booking possibilities for tables or private parties.

✔️ Content Marketing: Create content revolving around pool strategies, event recaps and local pool leagues to boost your search engine results.

✔️ Local Directory Listings: Ensure your hall is listed in online local business directories and entertainment guides to enhance visibility.

Studio Launch Event and Promotional Offers

✔️ Grand Opening Event: Host a launch event with demonstrations, mini-tournaments or free play sessions to attract a wide audience.

✔️ Introductory Discounts: Provide first-time guests with a discount or encourage longer stays with package offerings.

Digital Marketing and Customer Relations

✔️ Social Media Campaigns: Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to showcase your hall, special events and customer experiences.

✔️ Email Marketing: Send regular newsletters with updates, special offers and information about upcoming events or leagues.

✔️ Loyalty Program: Implement a program that rewards frequent visitors with discounts, free plays or other perks.

Brand Awareness and Public Relations

✔️ Local Media Outreach: Engage with local newspapers, radio stations and community blogs for stories or event coverage.

✔️ Community Involvement: Participate in community events and sponsor local sports teams or charity events to increase brand visibility.

✔️ Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with local social media influencers or well-known personalities in the community for promotional activities.

Performance Tracking

✔️ Analytics and Feedback: Use Google Analytics and consumer surveys to track how well your marketing efforts are doing.

✔️ Adaptation: The ability to adapt your tactics to changing performance metrics, consumer tastes and industry tendencies is essential.

Organizational Overview

The organizational overview section summarizes the company’s structure and operations. It explains the organizational structure including the hierarchy of reporting relationships, ownership and responsibilities of key management personnel. This also explains how the founder’s past experiences and credentials can help make the business successful.

With a lifetime love of billiards and a smart business and community sense, Jordan Ramirez has opened “Eight Ball Haven,” a pool hall that will soon be the buzz of Miami. His early introduction to the world of billiards sparked a lifelong interest in the sport and its culture. He first became interested in pool as a pastime, but he soon realized how much talent and planning went into it. Over the years, he has not only developed his own playing talents but also obtained a full grasp of what constitutes a wonderful pool-playing experience, from the quality of the tables to the atmosphere of the venue.

Jordan has the business management experience to turn his hobby into a lucrative enterprise. To provide a gathering place for fans and newbies to share their love of the game. To establish an open and friendly culture. Commitment to every client from the most casual player to the most dedicated aficionado feel at ease.

His attention can be seen throughout from the carefully curated collection of high-end pool tables and accessories to the thoughtful layout and décor.

Positions and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Jordan Ramirez:

As the CEO, Jordan Ramirez is the principal leader of “Eight Ball Haven.” He is in charge of developing long-term strategies, supervising daily operations and representing the pool hall in formal and informal settings. He keeps the management team and employees in the loop to make sure everything runs well.

Operations Manager

This role involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of the pool hall. Ensures the smooth running of all activities, manages staff schedules, oversees customer service quality and maintains the overall environment of the hall.

Event Coordinator

In charge of planning and executing the pool hall’s many activities including leagues, league play, private parties and tournaments. They handle reservation plan event schedules and guarantee that every event goes off without a hitch and exceeds customer expectations.

Bar Manager:

Oversees the operation of the bar area including inventory management, ordering supplies and ensuring compliance with liquor licensing laws. They are also responsible for creating drink menus and managing bar staff.

Kitchen Manager/Chef:

Manages the kitchen including menu planning, food preparation and ensuring food safety standards are met. They oversee kitchen staff, manage food inventory and ensure the quality and consistency of food served

Operational Overview

Pool and Billiards Play:

✔️High-quality pool tables available for casual play, practice and competitive matches.

✔️Flexible options for play including pay-per-hour or per-game rates.

Leagues and Tournaments:

✔️Organizing regular pool leagues and tournaments for different skill levels.

✔️Opportunities for players to compete, improve their skills and win prizes.

Private Events and Party Hosting:

✔️Hosting services for private events such as birthday parties, corporate events and special occasions.

✔️Customizable packages including reserved tables, food and beverage service and event coordination.

Food and Beverage Service:

✔️An extensive bar with many options for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

✔️Menu includes popular starters, entrées and sweets served in an informal atmosphere.

Billiards Coaching and Workshops:

✔️Professional coaching services for individuals or groups looking to improve their pool skills.

✔️The game is broken down into its constituent parts and taught in detail via a series of clinics and seminars.

Industry Analysis

At a CAGR of 3.5% from 2022 to 2029, the billiards market is forecast to increase from $650.0 million. The market is expanding since billiards are becoming more popular among young people.

It is estimated that the pool hall business in the United States is worth around $1.5 billion. This is a sizable slice of the global pool hall market. Most of the businesses in this sector are found in metropolitan cities like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.

In recent years, billiards have gained appeal among both casual and serious players which has helped fuel the expansion of the pool hall sector in the United States. Reasonably cheap activity and pool halls offer a social atmosphere for individuals to enjoy the game. A rise in popularity as a result of the increasing number of people who play fantasy sports and so frequent pool rooms to watch games and meet other fans.

Global Market

It has been estimated that the value of the pool hall business worldwide is roughly $5 billion. Expanding by around 3% annually. Several causes such as the rising profile of billiards and the proliferation of pool halls catering to certain groups as well as the rising profile of fantasy sports are driving this expansion.

Asia is home to the world’s largest pool hall market valued at an estimated $3 billion. The sector is also rising in prominence in Europe and North America.

✔️ Increasing popularity of electronic pool tables : Electronic pool tables are becoming increasingly popular especially in Asia. Electronic pool tables offer a number of advantages such as the ability to keep track of scores and play against people from all over the world.

✔️ Growth of pool halls that cater to specific demographics : More and more pool halls are opening up specifically for women, the LGBT community and young folks. You can usually find a wide selection of food and beverages, live music and karaoke at these pool halls.

✔️ Rising cost of rent : The rising cost of rent is a major challenge for pool halls especially in urban areas.

✔️ Increasing popularity of online gaming : The increasing popularity of online gaming is a threat to the pool hall industry as it provides people with an alternative way to play billiards.

✔️ Fantasy sports : The rising popularity of fantasy sports has led to greater interest in billiards since many fantasy sports players utilize pool halls as a venue to watch games and connect with other fans.

Industry Problems 

✔️ Equipment Quality and Maintenance: Poor upkeep of pool equipment is a common complaint from customers. A game may be severely hampered by uneven tables, shredded felt or distorted cues.

✔️ Overcrowding and Wait Times: There may be a significant wait for a table in popular pool venues. Customers could feel irritated particularly if they have a restricted budget.

✔️ Atmosphere and Environment: A lot of people hanging around all at once might be distracting and even unpleasant for individuals who prefer a quieter atmosphere. Problems with the environment’s lighting or air flow might also detract from the experience.

✔️ Service Quality: The customer experience may suffer if the personnel is inconsistent whether it’s because of delayed bar service or unhelpful workers. Providing fast and helpful service is essential to keeping customers happy.

✔️ Cleanliness and Hygiene: Cleanliness can be a concern with issues like dirty tables, unkept restrooms or a generally untidy space turning customers away.

Industry Opportunities

✔️Effective Crowd Management and Reservation Systems: Managing peak hours is one way to improve the customer experience that may be achieved with the use of an efficient booking system. Save time and effort by using a mobile app or an online booking platform to schedule their visits in advance.

✔️Creating a Comfortable and Inclusive Atmosphere: The popularity of Eight Ball Haven may increased by making it suitable for a wide range of users. A pleasant and inviting environment may be created for all customers by paying attention to lighting, ventilation and soundproofing.

✔️ Prioritizing Customer Service : The key to happy customers is a well-trained team that can meet their needs quickly and cheerfully. Provided this may be enhanced on an ongoing basis by instituting a feedback system. Superior service to customers may become an identifying feature of Eight Ball Haven distinguishing it apart from similar businesses.

✔️ Maintaining Cleanliness and Hygiene: Keeping the toilets and bar tops clean is crucial to providing a good service experience for your customers. The pool hall will always be a pleasant place to hang out thanks to the regular cleaning routine.

✔️ Competitive Pricing and Value Offers : Competitive pricing and value-added offerings such as gaming and meal bundles, may bring in consumers from a larger demographic. Loyalty programs may increase revenue by offering perks to returning customers.

Target Market Segmentation

Geographic Segmentation:

✔️ Miami-Dade County Residents : Focus on attracting local residents by positioning your pool hall as a convenient and appealing local entertainment option.

✔️ Specific Miami Neighborhoods: Market yourself specifically to the people who live in areas with a high concentration of social and recreational establishments such Coconut Grove, Little Havana or Coral Gables.

Demographic Segmentation:

✔️ Age Groups: Provide for a wide range of ages from younger folks eager in mingling and entertainment to more senior citizens who enjoy the challenge and relaxation of a game of pool.

✔️ Income Levels : Provide a spectrum of offerings from those more accessible to lower-income customers to those with higher disposable incomes.

✔️ Cultural Diversity : Take advantage of Miami’s multicultural population by organizing culturally-themed events and parties.

Psychographic Segmentation:

✔️ Casual Players and Socializers: Aim for those who like billiards more for the camaraderie it inspires than for the thrill of competition.

✔️ Serious Pool Enthusiasts and Competitors : Pool enthusiasts that are interested in leagues, tournaments and professional-grade gear should be your focus.

✔️ Event Seekers : Pay attention to those who are in search of novel places to have celebrations, meetings and other types of gatherings.

Behavioral Segmentation:

✔️ Regular Patrons: Promote repeat business by rewarding loyal clients with perks like membership discounts and exclusive offers.

✔️ Occasional Visitors : Attract customers who visit sporadically, possibly for specific events, special occasions or when seeking a new entertainment experience.

✔️ Group Bookings : Focus on groups such as friend circles, families or corporate teams that would be interested in reserving the space for private parties or team-building activities.

Market Size

✔️ Total Addressable Market (TAM) for Pool Hall: The “Eight Ball Haven” TAM includes the total prospective US market for billiards and associated entertainment services including for casual play and serious competition. Comprises a larger population seeking leisure and entertainment such as casual socializers, event organizers and individuals searching for a distinctive leisure location. The widespread attractiveness of pool as a social activity and the shift toward immersive forms of entertainment all play a role in shaping the TAM. This is a representative of the leisure and entertainment sector as a whole and it exemplifies the enormous potential market that Eight Ball Haven may serve.

✔️ Serviceable Addressable Market (SAM) for Pool Hall: People in Miami looking for pool halls are a subset of the Total Addressable Market (TAM) that your company can effectively serve. The pool, food and beverage and event hosting services, among others are what set this venue apart from others in its sector. The SAM takes into account the desired audience which may include people of a certain age, economic bracket or location of interest in Miami. Understanding the SAM is vital for customizing marketing efforts and services to the demands of the most relevant market segments guaranteeing that “Eight Ball Haven” successfully appeals to its target audience in Miami such as young adults, business groups or pool lovers.

✔️ Serviceable Obtainable Market (SOM) for Pool Hall : As a subset of the SAM, “Eight Ball Haven” is most likely to succeed in the Serviceable Obtainable Market. This represents the hall’s potential market share given its existing capabilities and its location in the Miami marketplace. The SOM is heavily impacted by the pool hall’s marketing prowess how distinctive their services are and how satisfied their customers are. Setting achievable corporate objectives and directing operational tactics like customer service, pricing and promotional activities are all made much easier with the SOM in place. The potential size of the market that “Eight Ball Haven” may hope to service in the near future is a crucial indicator of the success or failure of the company.

Industry Forces

Market Demand and Music Production Trends

To a large extent music business tendencies determine the level of demand for recording studio services in Miami. This includes the increasing need for professional recording spaces as a result of the proliferation of podcasting and independent music production. The convenience of sharing music online has also increased the need for professional studios where recordings may be made. As a result of these shifts your studio may profit by working with a wide variety of customers from newcomers to industry veterans.

Competition

Other small studios huge production corporations and mobile or home studios all pose threats to the music industry. Differentiating your studio from the pack requires giving services that are hard to get elsewhere, having high-quality equipment, providing excellent customer care and focusing on a certain niche. You can separate out from the competition and win over new customers by highlighting the features that make your studio special.

Technological Advances

Maintaining a high level of service requires keeping up with the newest in recording technology and gear. This involves purchasing and using cutting-edge technology and software for audio creation. Your studio’s accessibility and attractiveness to prospective customers may be increased by using digital tools including online booking systems, customer relationship management software and social media platforms for promotion.

Regulatory Environment

Your recording studio must adhere to all applicable rules and regulations such as those governing the conduct of businesses, the protection of intellectual property and the control of noise. Keeping up with developments in music rights management and licensing may have important consequences for the services you provide and the ways in which you charge for them. These legal concerns will guarantee that your studio stays within the law and maintains its image.

Economic Factors

How much artists and other producers can afford to spend on recording services is affected by the economy. Your studio’s revenue may rise or fall depending on the state of the economy since consumers’ willingness to spend money on recording projects may change during recessions and expansions. If you are aware of these economic elements you may better adapt your company’s tactics.

Financial Statements

The financial model has all the important financial statements including Income Statement , Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Statement. In addition, the financial model includes 3 to 5 years of projections and can be edited using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.

Income Statement

Cash Flow Statement

Balance Sheet

Revenue Summary

Cost of Goods Sold

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How To Start A Pool Hall In 2023

• Last Updated: August 29, 2023
• By: Greg Bouhl

Advertising Disclosure

For seasoned pool players, opening your own pool hall can seem like a fun and profitable business venture. Pool halls have been a staple in communities for decades, offering a place for both serious and casual players to show off their skills, socialize, and unwind. Beyond just installing some tables, however, successfully running a pool hall requires careful planning and preparation. This guide provides an overview of the pool hall business and actionable advice for getting started.

Business Overview

A pool hall, also known as a billiards club, is a venue where people play cue sports such as pool, snooker, and carom billiards. Such establishments often serve food and drinks, making them popular spots for socializing. The primary source of income is usually table rental fees, charged by the hour or game. However, sales from food, beverages, and possibly equipment can significantly boost revenue.

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Industry Overview

Pool halls fall under the broader category of “amusement and recreation industries,” which also includes places like bowling alleys and arcades. It’s also worth noting that the industry is relatively recession-resistant. When times are tough, people often look for affordable ways to unwind and socialize, and pool halls fit the bill nicely.

While the industry faced a temporary setback due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s showing signs of recovery. There are thousands of pool halls across the country catering to a wide range of demographics, from casual players to professional competitors.

Some notable trends that are expected to influence the industry over the next five years:

• The continued popularity of league play and tournaments among recreational players is a growth driver. Amateur championships like the APA League and BCA Pool League continue expanding.
• Billiards interest among millennials and female players has increased, broadening the target demographic. Operators may tailor offerings to these segments.
• One of the most noticeable trends is the shift from traditional pool halls to more upscale venues. These modern establishments often offer high-quality food, a variety of drink options, and luxurious interiors. The aim is to attract a broader, more diverse customer base, including families and professionals.
• Advances in pool table materials, cue technology, and ball design by leading brands like Brunswick and Aramith keep the sport innovative and attractive.
• Rising wages and commercial real estate costs may squeeze operator profit margins if unable to fully pass on increased costs through price increases.

The pool hall industry is on a promising trajectory, with several emerging trends expected to shape its future. Entrepreneurs entering this space can leverage these insights to align their business models with the evolving demands of the market.

Target Market

The target market for a pool hall business generally falls into a few key demographic and interest groups:

• Avid amateur league players: These are recreational pool players who participate in amateur leagues and tournaments, typically ranging from mid-20s to 40s in age. They frequent pool halls regularly for practice and competitive play.
• College students: Many college-aged students enjoy playing pool casually for fun as weekend or evening entertainment. Pool halls near campuses can attract this demographic.
• Local billiards clubs/groups: Most towns have dedicated billiards clubs that gather at pool halls for regular matches, practice, and socializing. Catering to these groups is wise.
• Gender considerations: Traditionally, pool halls have been male-dominated, but this is changing. As the industry evolves, there’s a growing number of female pool players, and some pool halls even host women-only leagues to encourage this demographic.
• Nightlife crowds: Bars and restaurants with pool tables attract patrons looking for nightlife, fun, and social activities. Pool halls can tap this market with trendy atmospheres.
• Casual players: Occasional pool players hitting the tables just for low-key recreation are also potential customers.

The key is identifying the predominant pool-playing groups in your local area and tailoring the venue vibe, amenities, and marketing to appeal to their desires for competition, practice, or mere entertainment.

Checklist To Start A Pool Hall

Starting a pool hall requires more than just technical skills or love for the game. It involves understanding the market, keeping up with industry trends, and managing various aspects of a business, from securing funding to marketing your services. But don’t let this deter you. With our guide, you’re one step closer to turning your dream into reality.

Step 1:  Research the Market

Market research is a critical step before launching any business, including a pool hall. It helps to reduce risks by providing insights into various aspects of the market, including competition, trends, customer preferences, and more.

Here are some cost-effective ways to gauge the market appetite for a pool hall:

• Search for existing pool leagues and clubs online and via local connections. Reach out to organizers to learn about membership levels. This signals local participation rates.
• Visit existing pool halls to observe their operations, customer demographics, and peak hours. This firsthand experience can give you invaluable insights.
• Look at review sites like Yelp to see customer feedback on existing pool halls in the area. This helps identify shortfalls or saturation.
• Your local Chamber of Commerce or Economic Development office often has resources and data about local businesses and industries. They can provide valuable information about the local market.

Step 2:  Write a Business Plan

There are a few key elements that you will need to include in your pool hall business plan in order to ensure its success. First, you will need to clearly outline your business goals and objectives. What are you hoping to achieve with your pool hall? How many tables do you hope to have? What kind of atmosphere do you want to create?

Next, you will need to come up with a detailed marketing plan. How will you attract customers to your pool hall? What kind of promotions and discounts will you offer? How will you distinguish your business from the competition?

You will also need to outline your financial projections. How much money do you anticipate making in your first year of business? What are your start-up costs? What are your operating expenses? How much do you expect to earn in revenue?

Last but not least, you will need to create a detailed management plan. Who will be responsible for what tasks? Who will make decisions about the day-to-day operations of the pool hall? Who will handle customer service?

By taking the time to plan out each of these aspects of your business carefully, you will increase your chances of success and ensure that your pool hall is a profitable venture.

Related:   How to write a business plan

Step 3:  Secure Funding

Securing startup funding is often the biggest hurdle for new pool hall entrepreneurs. This capital-intensive business requires a significant upfront investment. Here’s an overview of typical funding sources and considerations:

Many prospective owners start by tapping into personal savings . While limited, this allows you to retain full ownership and avoid loan payments. Lenders usually want the owner to contribute 15-25% of the total startup costs anyway.

Seeking loans from family and friends is another common funding avenue. Make sure to put any agreements in formal written contracts to protect relationships.

For larger capital needs, banks can provide small business loans or SBA-guaranteed financing. However, they’ll look at your credit score and collateral before approving a loan. Lenders also expect well-supported projections in your business plan to show loan repayment ability.

If your funding needs are relatively low or if you can’t secure a loan from a traditional lender, consider microloans . These are small loans, often accompanied by business training and other support services, offered by economic development organizations.

Equity funding is also possible if you are willing to give up some ownership. Local high net worth individuals may take an interest in pool hall ventures in their community. But, this type of funding is difficult as most angel investors are looking for high-growth, scalable businesses with a strong potential for return on investment.

Related:  Finding the money to start a business

Step 4: Register the Business

Starting a pool hall business involves taking care of several legal steps. These steps can vary by state but typically involve selecting a business structure, registering your business name, and obtaining necessary permits and licenses.

Business structure: One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is choosing a business structure. The four primary types of business structures are sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and Limited Liability Company (LLC).

• Sole proprietorship: This is the simplest form of business structure and is easy to set up. It’s suitable for a single owner and has lower startup costs. However, it offers no liability protection, meaning your personal assets could be at risk if the business incurs debts or legal issues.
• Partnership: If you’re starting the business with one or more partners, you might consider a partnership. Like a sole proprietorship, it’s relatively simple to set up but offers limited liability protection.
• Corporation: A corporation is a separate legal entity that provides liability protection. It’s more complex and costly to set up and has ongoing requirements like annual meetings and reporting.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC combines the liability protection of a corporation with the simplicity and flexibility of a sole proprietorship or partnership.

Most pool halls operate as LLCs or corporations to limit personal liability.

Related: Comparison of business structures

Forming an LLC sounds complicated and expensive, but using an entity formation service guides you through the process so you know it was done right.

Some popular LLC formation services include:

IncFile  - $0 plus state fees & free registered agent for 1 year!

ZenBusiness  - Best for beginners. $0 plus state fees & free registered agent for 1 year!

Northwest  - Best privacy protection. $39 plus state fees & free registered agent for 1 year!

Business name registration: After registering the business structure, you may need to register your business name. This process will vary depending on what business structure you pick. Sole proprietors and partnerships will often be required to register a “Doing Business As” (DBA), while corporations and LLCs register with the state during the formation process.

Related:  Tips and ideas for naming a pool hall

During this time, it’s also a good idea to check if the name you want is available as a web domain, even if you’re not ready to set up a website yet.

Related: Finding a domain name for your business

Food & alcohol permits: If you plan to serve alcohol, you will need a liquor license, and establishments selling food will need food service licensing through the local Health Department.

General business licenses and permits: Depending on your location, there will likely be a variety of general licenses or permits needed before opening. This could include a business license, seller’s permit, and Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Related: State guides for general business licensing

Music and entertainment licensing: If you’re planning to host live music or other performances, you’ll need the appropriate licensing. This ensures you’re legally allowed to play copyrighted material and can save you from hefty fines down the line.

Step 5:  Select a Location

For one, location is key. You’ll want a spot that’s easy to find and close to your target audience. Don’t underestimate the power of foot traffic! Your pool hall might also serve as a venue for local pool tournaments, offer private lessons, or host other social events.

Then there’s the question of atmosphere. Are you going for a family-friendly vibe or a more adult-oriented setting that serves alcohol? This decision not only affects the customer experience but also your licensing needs. Speaking of which, you’ll need various permits and licenses to operate, especially if you’re serving booze or offering live entertainment.

Having sufficient capital prior to signing a lease is highly recommended. Financing can take longer than expected to secure or even be denied, so avoid committing to a costly rental agreement too quickly.

Scouting involves visiting potential spaces and analyzing them based on several factors like size, accessibility, visibility, neighborhood demographics, nearby businesses, and rent costs. Visiting other successful pool halls allows you to gather ideas for layout, lighting, equipment, decor, and ambiance.

Design and floorplan are important. Allow adequate room between tables for players and spectators. Outfit the space with a quality sound system, lighting, ventilation, etc.

Buildout often includes a bar and lounge area, so factor in necessary sinks, refrigeration, stools, and bar seating. Bathrooms should also have the capacity for large crowds.

Meeting building codes and accessibility standards is required. Be sure to work with your building code enforcement office early on to make sure there won’t be any issues that could have been prevented.

Step 6:  Purchase Equipment

When purchasing equipment for a pool hall, several key considerations will play into making the best decisions for your business. The equipment you choose should not only meet your operational needs but also align with the expectations of your target market.

First, the quality of your pool tables is paramount. Your customers, whether they are casual players or seasoned professionals, will appreciate tables that offer a smooth and fair game. The number, size, and style of pool tables you choose should reflect the demographic you aim to attract. For instance, serious players might prefer professional-grade tables, while casual players or groups might enjoy larger, more social tables.

Cues, balls, racks, and other accessories also need to be of good quality. These items will undergo regular use (and potentially misuse), so durability should be a top consideration. Offering a range of cues in different weights and sizes can cater to a broader audience, enhancing the playing experience for all your customers.

Something that is often overlooked but is very important for a pool hall, is lighting. Investing in good lighting helps in creating an inviting atmosphere and ensuring the playability of each game. Each table should have its own overhead light, bright enough to eliminate shadows but not so harsh as to cause discomfort. Consider your target market’s preferences – younger audiences might appreciate trendy, modern lighting fixtures, while an older demographic might lean towards classic, traditional designs.

Seating and general furnishings should provide comfort for players between games and spectators. Think about incorporating booth seating, bar stools, or lounge areas depending on your customers’ preferences. If your target market includes families or groups, consider adding other gaming options like foosball or darts to diversify the entertainment offering.

Last, if you plan to offer food and beverages, your kitchen and bar equipment should be efficient, reliable, and capable of producing the menu you’ve designed for your clientele.

Step 7:  Prepare a Food & Drink Menu (if relevant)

Creating a food and drink menu for a billiards hall can be essential to ensuring your venue offers an all-around enjoyable experience, and more profits.

Based on your understanding of your customers, space, and staffing, decide on the type of food and drinks you will serve. Are they casual players looking to unwind with friends, or are they serious enthusiasts? Will your menu be more pub-style, with burgers, pizzas, and fries? Or perhaps more sophisticated with gourmet sandwiches and salads? Similarly, for drinks, will you focus on beer and cocktails or also offer a selection of wines and spirits? Understanding this will guide you in crafting a menu that satisfies their cravings.

Oh, and let’s not forget pricing. Costing out each item accurately will help set prices that make sense—for you and your customers. It’s a delicate balancing act but necessary to protect your bottom line. Many food distributors will help new businesses with planning out a menu and costing out recipes, so don’t be afraid to ask for their help. Also, if you don’t have experience in food service, be sure to test your recipes. Make sure they are not only delicious but also feasible to prepare in your kitchen with the equipment and staff you have.

Step 8: Hire Staff

When hiring new employees for your pool hall, it is important to consider the type of person who will be a good fit for the business. There are a few key traits that you should look for in potential candidates:

First, you want someone who is outgoing and friendly. This person will need to interact with customers on a regular basis.

Second, you want someone who is reliable and responsible. This person will be in charge of handling money and equipment, so you need to know that they will take their job seriously.

Finally, if you can find someone with experience in the pool hall industry or as a manager, that would be optimal. This person can help run the business’s day-to-day operations and teach new employees the ropes to free you up to focus on running the business.

Once you have identified a few potential candidates, be sure to conduct a thorough interview process. This will help you determine if the person is a good fit for the job. You can also check references and background information to get a better idea of their character.

If you are looking to hire employees for your pool hall, keep these things in mind. By finding someone with the right personality and skills, you can ensure that your business runs smoothly and provides a great customer experience.

Related :  Hiring your first employee

Step 9:  Create a Marketing Plan

There are a number of ways to advertise your pool hall, and the type of advertising you choose will depend on your budget and target audience. Some effective methods of advertising a pool hall include online advertising, print advertising, word-of-mouth marketing, and hosting events.

Online advertising is a great way to reach a large number of people quickly and efficiently. Start off by creating a professional-looking website showcasing the tables, amenities, events calendar, and menu. Regularly posting high-quality images and videos of your venue, special events, and promotions can engage potential customers and foster a sense of community around your business. Also, claiming your business on relevant online directories, such as Google Business Profile, Yelp, and others, can improve your visibility in local search results and provide potential customers with essential information about your business.

Print advertising is another option to promote a billiard hall, and you can place ads in local newspapers and magazines. Word-of-mouth marketing is a more personal way to promote your business, and you can encourage friends, family, and customers to spread the word about your pool hall. Forge partnerships with local leagues, colleges, and community centers to be their official practice and tournament venue can be effective as well. Also, having tournaments and pool leagues will encourage consistent, repeat business for your pool hall.

No matter which type of advertising you choose, be sure to make your pool hall look attractive and inviting. People will be more likely to visit your business if they feel like it’s a fun place to be. With a little effort, you can successfully market your pool hall and bring in more customers.

Related:  Low-cost ideas to market a new business

Step 10:  Prepare to Open!

So you’ve got a solid plan, found a great location, and you’re almost ready to break the first rack. But hang on, there are likely still some steps to take before you officially open those doors. Every business has its unique challenges and requirements, and a pool hall is no exception. Here’s what you might still need to tackle:

Business insurance: You’ll want to get your hands on some good business insurance. At a minimum, this should cover general liability, property damage, and potentially even liquor liability if you’re serving alcohol. If you have employees, you will likely be required to have worker’s compensation insurance.

Bookkeeping: Proper bookkeeping is essential for any business. You’ll need to track all income, expenses, and transactions. Consider hiring a professional bookkeeper or using accounting software like Wave Accounting (FREE) or Quickbooks .

Bank account: A separate business bank account is a good idea for keeping your personal and business finances separate. It makes tracking easier and is essential for maintaining clean financial records.

Management software: Management or point-of-sale (POS) software can streamline operations. Examples include systems like CuetPOS , Square , and Clover .

Credit cards: If not already integrated into your POS system, you’ll also need a reliable credit card processing system. Popular options include Square or Stripe .

Preparing for the grand opening

Think about promotions, special offers, or events to draw people in. Maybe a tournament with prizes or special deals on the first week could stir up some excitement.

Common Questions When Starting A Pool Hall

How much does it cost to start a pool hall.

Starting a pool hall is not a venture for the faint of pocket. It’s not uncommon to be looking at initial costs ranging from $80,000 to $250,000, depending on factors like location, size, and the quality of amenities you want to offer. Let’s break down these numbers so you get a glimpse into where the money’s going.

Property and lease: Rent or property purchase is one of your most substantial expenses. In a high-traffic area, you could pay upwards of $4,000 in initial deposits just for the space. Some owners opt to buy property, and that’s a whole different ball game, often requiring a hefty down payment.

Pool tables and equipment: Quality pool tables can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000 each. If you plan to have ten tables, you’re already looking at a minimum of $30,000. Don’t forget other equipment like cues, balls, racks, and chalk. You could end up spending an additional $2,000+ on those.

Furnishings and decor: From seating to flooring to lighting, you’ll need to invest in the atmosphere. These costs could set you back anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the look you’re going for.

Licenses and permits: Liquor licenses, food service permits, and business licenses are required to make a business legal to operate. Costs vary by state, but you could be looking at $1,000 to $5,000 just for the permits.

Initial inventory: Stocking your bar and kitchen will be another significant outlay. Initial inventory costs could be around $5,000 to $10,000, including both alcohol and food.

Staffing: While it’s an ongoing cost, hiring staff requires an initial investment for training and uniforms, usually around $1,000 to $2,000.

Insurance: For initial insurance costs like liability and property insurance, you’re looking at around $2,000 to $4,000.

Marketing: Initial marketing, including your grand opening event, social media ads, and local partnerships, can cost between $2,000 and $5,000.

Utilities: Electricity, water, and other utility hook-ups often require deposits or initial fees. Set aside about $1,000 for these.

In addition to these costs, consider budgeting in a financial buffer. I can’t stress enough how essential it is to have three to six months of operating expenses on hand. Unexpected costs always pop up, and having that cushion can be the difference between sailing smoothly and hitting the rocks.

How profitable is a pool hall?

To estimate potential revenue, let’s consider a small pool hall with ten tables. If each table is rented out for an average of five hours per day at a rate of $10 per hour, that’s $50 per table per day. Over a month, this amounts to $15,000 in revenue from table rentals alone.

Additional revenue can be generated from food and beverage sales, as well as other services like lessons or equipment sales. For example, if your hall sells an average of $200 in food and beverages per day, that’s an additional $6,000 per month.

So, the total estimated monthly revenue would be around $21,000 ($15,000 from table rentals + $6,000 from food and beverage sales).

On the expense side, costs can include rent or mortgage payments, utilities, employee wages, insurance, maintenance, and supplies. These costs can vary widely, but using industry averages as a rough estimate, they might amount to around 60-70% of the gross revenue. Using the higher end of this range, expenses might total around $14,700 per month (70% of $21,000).

Subtracting expenses from revenue leaves a monthly net profit of around $6,300 ($21,000 – $14,700). Annually, this would equate to a profit of approximately $75,600.

It’s important to note that these are very rough estimates and actual figures can vary significantly based on many factors. There are various ways to boost these numbers, of course—like hosting events or offering memberships—but the bottom line is, a pool hall can turn a profit if you play your cards right.

What skills are helpful when running a pool hall?

Running a pool hall successfully isn’t just a game of chance; it takes a particular skill set. Here are some common skills that will be useful for the owner of a pool hall.

Business management skills: You need to understand how to manage a business effectively. This includes financial management, operations management, and strategic planning.

Customer service skills: A pool hall is a service business, so excellent customer service is crucial. You need to ensure that your customers have a great experience every time they visit your hall.

Industry knowledge: Understanding the game of pool and the pool hall industry is essential. This can help you choose the right equipment, set appropriate prices, and attract the right customers.

Marketing skills: You need to know how to effectively promote your pool hall to attract customers. This could involve traditional advertising methods, social media marketing, or hosting events and tournaments.

Networking skills: Building relationships with local businesses, pool leagues, and other community groups can help increase your visibility and customer base.

Problem-solving skills: Running any business comes with challenges, and a pool hall is no different. Being able to effectively solve problems as they arise is crucial.

All these skills, combined with passion and dedication, can contribute significantly to the success of a pool hall business.

What is the NAICS code for a pool hall?

The NAICS code for a pool hall is 713990, which is classified under All Other Amusement and Recreation Industries.

The NAICS code (North American Industry Classification System) is a federal system to classify different types of businesses for the collection and reporting of statistical data.

Related: What is a NAICS code and how to find yours

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Starting a Pool Hall Business

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Give us an overview of the pool hall business. It sounds pretty interesting.

In most metro areas now in the northeast, when you to go a pool hall, it’s not your plain cement floor just off the bowling alley type thing. The trend now is to have full bars, wait staff, comfortable lighting, comfortable chairs, that sort of thing. They are becoming really sort of Meccas for sports entertainment and in the case of The Hub, we actually have a second floor where we have a full live music venue. So we do live music on the weekends as well.

I see that in general. The pool halls that I’ve seen not adapt to that sort of more upscale play have actually started to fall by the wayside. We are seeing less and less of those dingy, grungy pool halls of yesteryear and more of a trend to the upscale space. We are not seeing more pool halls coming to being, but we are seeing a resurgence in the refurbish and the improvement of the pool halls that are local.

It is still very strong there. Again, speaking to Long Island, there is a big, strong, social element. At The Hub we focus very much on what I’ll call the “social player,” couple of guys coming in to shoot pool. But there is also, in the New York metro, a very strong amateur and professional league scene as well. Pool is alive and well and my understanding is that it’s thriving in other parts of the country as well.

Brad, back up a little bit and tell us how you got into this business. What’s your background?

I had gotten into this business actually through a friend. I was looking to start a business – when I was younger I had done a lot of work in retail and I had been very much customer facing in a lot of my past jobs.

I’m originally from Canada and I had a good friend up there open up a pool hall with a chain called Dooly’s in Canada. I’m going to say there are probably about 30 to 40 locations strong and he had opened one. I saw it as a great business where what appealed to me was the customers entertain themselves. They are not there for my food, not beholden to a chef. I wanted to get into some customer facing business. I was comfortable in that space and what struck me about billiards was that it is unique, it is niche and the customers for the most part entertain themselves, right? So that’s what got me into it and then leveraging my colleague and learning everything I could from what he had done building up his pool hall, when I moved to the United States and the time was right, I elected to go into that business and it’s been about five years now.

What kind profit potential is there in the pool hall business? You see some maybe in your local area and you wonder are people really making a lot of money in this?

If you look at gross margins – I’m just speaking for New York – anything that you make off the pool table is tax free in terms of sales tax and then our other revenue stream is beverage sales. We don’t have a full kitchen. We do simple foods but all in all the gross margins are in that 50 to 60%. In my case, the building is close to 12,000 square feet. Rent is your biggest expense followed by employees and then utilities. So net-net you can expect to get – if you are running it right, you could expect to see 10 to 15% net margins. Talk us through the process of creating a pool hall business plan. Where do you really start?

The first part was really coming up with what was the concept. Are you going to be a family entertainment center? Think bowling alley. That type of thing. Or are you looking to be more geared towards the player? Or are you looking to be more geared towards the social element, right? I think that drives the type of venue you want, how you are going to lay out and what kind of expenses you are going to have and, of course, it’s going to drive one of the major things, which is rent, and where you want to be. That’s the first thing: what’s your concept?

For me, it was simply just starting to write it all down. I think a lot of times when folks are thinking about starting a business, they’ve got all these ideas but they don’t take the time to methodically write it down. For me, the easy part was starting to write down my ideas and my thinking of everything. So this is all great. This is how it’s going to look. This is the pool tables I want. This is the décor. This is the food. And I could envision a day in the life but then the hard part maybe not the most glamorous part was okay, let’s start to then figure out what this thing is going to cost.

Once I had an understanding of what I wanted in terms of a concept, I started to look for locations and sites. Long Island is just one big, sprawling suburb broken into small towns. I started looking at those towns where people gathered. My concept was all around sort of the social or entertainment player. We still have families. We still have leagues and that sort of thing, but the real focus was on what I will call the social player.

Families will come in, absolutely, and they’ll get some chicken wings or get some sodas and they are great for a Saturday afternoon or Sunday afternoon for sure. The league players, what I find is the serious league players around pool are very serious on the game. They are not big drinkers, but the keep your room as busy on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday night. The money is in the folks that will come in, maybe they will be two couples, they will come in, they will take a table for a couple of hours but the women are drinking wine, the guys are drinking craft beers and that’s really where the money is in, birthday parties, to be honest with you.

The way we’ve designed our room and we get a lot of 30, 40, 50, 60th sort of celebration birthday points. We’ve done it such that the wives, the girlfriends feel just as comfortable in the places the guys do. To me that’s the sweet spot. If I could do birthday parties every day of the week, I’d be a happy man.

How do you get funding for your pool hall business? I mean, when you walk into a bank or you apply for a loan, is this something people want to lend you money to do?

I spent a lot of time with the New York State Development Corp. refining the business plan. I went to leverage the different resources like score to continue to flesh out the plan and then through the SBA programs there, I was able to get funding from a bank. To answer your question succinctly, Matt, yes, I think they will fund you. Obviously, how much are you looking for? How much are you putting in yourself? What does your business plan look like? Those are all key factors.

Ultimately, what you might want to look at is purchasing an existing pool hall. Can you get the guy that’s had the place for 10/15 years, maybe let it run down a little bit and he is ready to get out. So the question is: is it the right location for the concept you want to do? What’s it going to take to turn around? What sort of modifications, refurbs, cleanup is it going to take? There is a high likelihood that you can get the seller to finance part of the purchase. “Listen, we are going to pay this thing off over three years, four years and I will give you 50% down and you pay the other 50% off monthly at an agreed upon interest rate.”

That’s another route that I know other owners have taken and the trade-off is it might not be the exact location you want to go to and that can be do or die. Then again, you may not have to deal with any banks.

Buying an existing location, that’s an interesting thought and I’m sure that some people listening are going to be faced with that sort of thing. How do you differentiate between a business that might be just poorly run with a lot of upside potential and one that’s on the way out that you really should steer clear of?

The first thing I would do is consult with the building department. Here on Long Island, you have to be zoned for public assembly. You have to be zoned for billiards and amusement. Then, of course, if you have a bar, you have to have a liquor license and have the zoning to sell liquor and food. All of these things you can find at your local building department. What I would suggest is you make a list of all the pool halls in the surrounding area that you are interested in, craft a letter introducing yourself frankly stating, “Hey, I’m looking at opening up a pool hall in your area. I’d be interested in speaking to you about possibly purchasing your venue.” Send that out to all of those guys and then you’ll get information back.

Now you’ve done your business plan, right? I’m not saying this is a way to short circuit your business plan, but you’ve done your business plan. You understand what certain things cost. You’ve talked to the electrical company to get an understanding of what the rates are for gas/electric. You know what the phone bill is going to be. You’ve gone to the liquor and beer distributors and if not the distributors, just go to the retail outlets and you’ve priced liquor, you’ve priced beer. You have an understanding of what your costs are going to be going into it. And it’s not going to be perfect but it’s going to be pretty close and what I offer in my consulting is the ability to validate some of those assumptions that some of my customers have made, right? Hey, you are too high. You are too low. That sort of thing.

Point is you’ve done your  business plan , you’ve done your homework. Now when you’ve reach out – and I guarantee you, you are going to get some calls – you go in there and you’ll be able to spend some time with them. What’s the rent? As part of the business plan, you’ve talked with real estate brokers, commercial brokers, you’ll know what the going rent is in certain towns in certain areas, right? Have the guy signed a terrible lease? If he has signed a terrible lease, is there an opportunity that when you buy this to renegotiate the lease? Of course, you are not going to buy anything until you’ve talked to the landlord and had that discussion.

To answer your earlier question, yeah, maybe he is just into a terrible lease and there is an opportunity to renegotiate the lease. Maybe he’s let the place go and you’ve spent some time, you’ve staked it out, you’ve been there on Saturday and next Friday nights. Maybe you know people who know the pool hall. Is it just run down? The old pig needs some lipstick? What’s the neighborhood that it’s in? Is it in a good neighborhood and just been let run down? Or is the neighborhood changing? From what you know about the neighborhood, is it changing for the better or for the worse?

You to go two or three pool halls and you talk to the owners, you are going to start to get a sense of what is a good deal and what isn’t. You are going to start to know because you’ve done your research about turning it around.

The other thing you could think about is find out who runs the pool tournaments. In the New York area, there is a hand full of guys that are sort of the go-to guys for the metro and regional tournaments.  Predator  is a brand of cue. They hold the Predator Tour .  Joss  is another cue manufacturer, so there is the Joss Tour , those types of things.

The guys running those tournaments and the guys who go to those tournaments know all the pool halls and know all the issues that are going on. So if you find out where the next Predator tour is or the next tournament, you’ll go there. They’ll be 20, 30, 40, 50 guys depending on the size of the tournament. Just go in, hang out, introduce yourself to some of the players and say, “Hey, what about Bob’s pool hall over on route 10. What do you guys know about that? What’s the word on the street of those guys?” And you’ll be amazed at the answers. It’s a relatively small community and you’ll start to get a feel for that particular location and trust me, you’ll start to get enough information to find out if it’s a good spot, if it’s a diamond in the rough, or if it’s a dog.

Recently I had one of the pool halls not far from me, really a rundown place that went belly up. I had some guys I know from my pool hall go out there – they thought they could get it on the cheap, right? Hey, you know this guy is going out of business we get it on the cheap. Well, you know what? They found out there was no sprinkler system. It was an older building so it was sort of grandfathered that they didn’t need a sprinkler system. Well, you know what? To have a new owner, means the grandfathering is over. So they’d have to go to the building department, get sprinkler systems. Lo and behold, they do a bit more research, find out he hasn’t got a billiards permit.

Again, some of these towns they turn a blind eye as long as there is no trouble but do you want to build your business on the fact that this guy isn’t “legal to use.”

What about choosing a location if you are opening a new pool hall? Are there certain types of businesses you want to be located near or are there certain types of properties that offer a good value – might be attractive but not too expensive?

I target what I call the social player in my business plan. I am in an area sort of between two towns where there is not a convergence of restaurants or bars, so I would have liked to have been closer to what we call the “happening towns” on Long Island where they are known for their nightlife. I’m also on the south shore, which means that to get to my location, you’ve got to come off the beaten path a little bit. What I would suggest is you try to get as close to major arteries as you can. That will increase your draw. I get people especially for my music or for some of the dart tournaments or pool tournaments I try to run. A little off the beaten path that’s going to cut back by 15-20% the amount of people we can draw, right? So look for a major artery.

Look for companion businesses and in my case, it would be bars, restaurants, sort of a happening area. The tradeoff, of course, is your rent is going to be higher, right? Then the availability of space. Again, I’ve got a two-story building. Each floor is about 5500 square feet. To find 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,000 square feet depending on how big you want to go in a sort of happening area, can be expensive. I’m not saying it’s not worth it, but that’s the tradeoff you’ll have to make.

Now that you’ve brought in customers, what are some of your marketing techniques that you’ve learned about effective ways to market a pool hall business?

Couple of ways that we’ve been bringing in customers. First of all, we scan everybody’s ID at door. What that does is it captures their address, date of birth, first and last name. It’s called Bar & Club Stats . It’s an app for an iPod and then you buy this specialty scanner that the iPod slips into. We’ve been doing that to capture current customers and we then do that for mailings, right? So we’ll send out postcards to those people. We also actively work on our Facebook page to capture likes and leverage social media. As you know, it costs nothing, so it’s a good value for the buck. If you go to our website and you want to look at our calendar events, it leads right to our Facebook page and we work pretty hard to keep that up-to-date, so leveraging social media.

The other piece of it, with us, we are targeting dart tournament organizers, pool tournament organizers to drive our day traffic predominantly on the weekend, so we will work with guys that are connected with the dart community. As part of your concept, you definitely want to have a dart alley. Unlike the pool players, the dart guys, they come to play and they come to drink, so they are a great demographic to target, for sure. We leverage the dart guys and work with them to bring tournaments. We do pool leagues which then gets us out in the pool community, so we have a Wednesday night leagues. Then for the venue upstairs, we leverage a lot of promoters where we give them a cut of the door and they are tasked with putting together a show for the evening, whether that’s one band or multiple bands.

I haven’t been able to find anything besides email, direct mail, social media. We don’t do anything with local newspapers or anything like that just because it’s been cost prohibitive. Those would be the main areas. The old adage, your best new customer is your last customer. If we’ve got a show going on where I’m going to have 50, 75, 100, 150 people upstairs, that’s 100 new names. For a 42 cents stamp I could send them out a postcard and remind them to think about their next party at the Hub.

What kind of pricing do you have at the Hub Billiard Club? What does it cost to come and play a game of pool?

We do it on a per person, per hour basis. So if you are coming in on a Saturday night and you’ve got two, three, four people, you are looking at about, on average, $6 to $7 per person per hour. Four people shooting pool on a Saturday for an hour the bill would be about $24. We open at noon each day and we have a stable of retirees or shift worker type city employees that come in pretty much every day and we give them a $12 play-all-day flat rate. These guys are in every day working on their game, so we do that for them. Our liquor prices, in the Long Island area, we charge about $5 for a beer and then hard liquor can run $6 to $9 – $10, depending on the drink.

Certainly, liquor sales is an important part of the pool hall business?

For every dollar we take in in pool revenue, we are taking in about a dollar and a half of liquor. So the more you can drive the people to the pool tables – people are there, they are grabbing pictures of beer, they are grabbing a martini, they are grabbing a glass of wine, they are having a shot of scotch, whatever it may be. I can’t see a pool hall surviving without some food but definitely liquor sales.

What about finding and hiring a good manager and employees? What do you have for advice about that?

I lucked in. I had friends of the family, their son was just finishing up hospitality management in college and I brought him in – he was probably about 22 or 23 at the time – and remember this was my first pool hall, my first business, so it was a sort of, “Let’s learn this thing together.” What was great about having that individual was he’d bartended a lot. He knew how to run a bar. He was great with people and he had this desire to learn.

Have some faith that it’s not rocket science, right? Anybody can learn to pour a drink. Anybody can be taught. Find somebody that’s passionate about the idea as you. Pay them as much as you can afford if they are good. They don’t have to be pool experts but if they enjoy the game of billiards, most importantly, if they enjoy the public and have people skills and then you are looking for somebody that can get the job done.

In my research I ran across one book, and there was this great anecdote about keeping employees. It went something like this, he called it the shopping mall rule where if you were in a big shopping mall and you saw somebody that you knew, we all do one of three: we walk over and say, “Hey, Bob. How are you doing?” Or “Hey, there is Bob. If I bump into him, I’ll say hi.” Then there is the third type which is “Hey, there is Bob. I think I’ll turn the other way around.” The advice from this book, and it served me well, was you only keep the first one. So if you’ve got an employee that you wouldn’t run to in the mall and say, “Hey, how are you doing?” Then get rid of them.

It’s a simple little rule of thumb that’s worked really well because it keeps morale up with everybody because everybody that’s there wants to be there and is doing their share. My first manager actually just moved on. He’s now starting his own business and I think a lot of what he learned starting the pool hall with me has now translated into his confidence to do something on his own. So find somebody that’s passionate. The ideas will come, the energy to do it. Assume that they are going to fail a little bit and make mistakes but make sure they want to deal with the public, that they have some people skills and you are comfortable with their management style and how they are going to treat the employees.

What would you say are the most common mistakes you see people make when they open a pool hall?

The first thing I see in the planning stage is they’ve got this great rosy picture but when you actually peel down and say, okay, so what’s the rent going to be there? Have you talked to the building department? What’s the situation with liquor sales there and reps in your state? How does that all work? Because every state is different, right?

The biggest mistake I see is they are ready to take that step of signing a lease or making an offer to an existing owner without having done their homework. That leads to either overpaying for rent or overpaying for the business and not being fully prepared for what they are going to get in to.

The other piece of it, if you haven’t done it before, maybe first get into a bar of similar size and style and see if you can work there. Whether it’s kitchen help, stock boy, bar back, bartender, waiter, if you haven’t got it, get some of that relevant experience just so you understand what’s it about. Nothing worse than betting part of your nest egg on a business just to find out it’s not really your cup of tea. Do what you can to get some relevant experience beforehand if you haven’t got it already.  

Brad Turner is the creator of  Pool Hall Business Plan  and is the owner of  The Hub Billiard Club  in Island Park, New York.

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