It’s crucial to have a well-prepared equipment list when opening a pub or bar. This will ensure that your operations run smoothly and that you provide the best possible experience for your customers. Our comprehensive checklist includes everything you need, from essential items like glassware and refrigeration units to specialized equipment such as cocktail shakers and draft systems. Don’t overlook software either – it can be instrumental in managing inventory, sales, and even staff scheduling. With this guide, you can be confident that you’ll have all the right tools at your disposal to make your pub a success!
What equipment does every pub need?
Your exact equipment list is likely to vary depending on what type of pub or bar you want to run, but there are some essentials you’ll definitely need to operate.
Cocktail and bar equipment
These are the essentials you’ll need to serve and mix drinks at your bar.
Glasses
Shot glasses
Pint glasses
Rocks glasses
Martini glasses
Highball glasses
Brandy snifters
Champagne glasses
Wine glasses
Collins glasses
Mixing glasses
Bartending Tools
Jiggers
Muddlers
Straws and stirrers
Cutting boards
Napkins and coasters
Cocktail shakers
Cocktail spoon
Garnishing tools
Bar mats
Bar towels
Citrus juicers
Cap catchers
Bottle and can openers
Cocktail strainers
Liquor bottle pourers
Containers for garnishes and bitters
Ice cube trays, ice molds and ice buckets
Wine openers
Drinks and dispensing equipment
You’ll need to stock up on a selection of different brands of liquors, as well as liqueurs and cocktail mixers.
Alcoholic Drinks
Vodka
Gin
Tequila
Whiskey
Scotch
Bourbon
Rum
Liqueurs
Amaretto
Coffee Liqueur
Dry and sweet vermouth
Irish cream liqueur
Non-alcoholic Mixers
Lemon juice
Lime cordial
Orange juice
Cranberry juice
Grapefruit juice
Pineapple juice
Tomato juice
Bitters
Simple syrup
Grenadine
Milk, Half & Half or cream
Tabasco sauce and Worcestershire sauce
Sodas
Soda water
Tonic water
Ginger ale
Cola and Diet Cola
Lemonade
Garnishes
Lemons
Limes
Oranges
Maraschino cherries
Olives
Mint
Salt and sugar
Pub EPOS system
A modern pub EPOS system or POS system will not only help you to manage your inventory, but also track sales and generate reports. This will help you to make informed decisions about what products to stock and when to reorder. Some features of a good pub EPOS system include:
Inventory management
Sales tracking
Reporting and analytics
Order management
Customer management
Employee management
Loyalty program integration
Investing in a reliable pub EPOS system can save you time and money in the long run by streamlining your operations and improving your bottom line.
In addition to the bar equipment and drinks, you’ll also need to consider your pub furniture and equipment. This includes:
Tables and chairs
Bar stools
Booths
Lighting fixtures
Sound system
TVs and projectors
Pool table or other games
Outdoor seating (if applicable)
Investing in quality furniture and equipment not only creates a comfortable environment for patrons but also adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of your pub. Make sure to conduct regular maintenance checks to ensure everything is in good condition and replace any worn-out items as needed.
Pub Coolers and Refrigeration
To keep your drinks and ingredients fresh, you’ll need reliable pub refrigeration equipment. Investing in good refrigeration equipment is essential to ensure the quality of your drinks and ingredients. Regular maintenance and cleaning will also help to prolong the life of your equipment and prevent breakdowns during peak periods. Make sure to purchase from a reputable supplier and consider energy-efficient options to save on electricity costs.
Bottle coolers for behind the bar
Storage fridges
Cellar cooling system
Ice machine/Ice maker
Keg Equipment
To serve draft beer, you’ll need to invest in keg equipment. This includes:
Kegs
Taps
CO2 tanks and regulators
Keg cooling system
It’s important to ensure that your keg equipment is functioning properly and that you have backups on hand in case of any malfunctions. Regular cleaning and maintenance will also help to prevent any contamination of your beer. Keeping spare parts on hand can save you time and money in the long run. Make sure to work with a reputable supplier for all your keg equipment needs.
Other Equipment
Liquor dispensers
Floor mats
Blenders
Glass racks/holders
Cleaning supplies and tools
Glasswasher and dishwasher
Food and kitchen supplies
If you’re planning on serving food, you’ll also need to think about your kitchen equipment. You may need:
When it comes to purchasing equipment for your pub, there are many options available. You can buy new or used items from a variety of suppliers and online retailers. It’s important to do your research and compare prices and warranties before making any purchases. Don’t forget to factor in shipping costs and delivery times when making your decision. Consider reaching out to other pub owners for recommendations on where to find quality equipment at reasonable prices.
Our sister company, Gardiff Catering stocks all large pub equipment you’ll need, such as ice machines, refrigeration and warewashers.
With the right investments in equipment, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful pub that customers will love frequenting.
Pub Equipment Checklist FAQs
What equipment do I need behind a bar?
Behind the bar, you’ll need bottle coolers to keep beers and other drinks cold, as well as storage fridges for ingredients and garnishes. A cellar cooling system is also essential to ensure your beer is kept at the correct temperature. Don’t forget an ice machine for those refreshing cocktails! Other equipment includes liquor dispensers, floor mats, blenders, glass racks/holders, cleaning tools and supplies, and a glasswasher/dishwasher.
How do I make my pub stand out?
Making your pub stand out involves a combination of factors, including creating a unique atmosphere, offering quality beverages and food, and providing excellent customer service. In addition to this, investing in high-quality pub equipment can make a big difference in the overall experience customers have at your establishment. Having efficient and reliable equipment like refrigeration systems and grills can ensure that drinks and food are served quickly and at the right temperature, which can greatly enhance customer satisfaction. Don’t forget to regularly update your menu with new offerings and promotions to keep customers coming back for more.
What are the large equipment in bar?
Large equipment in a bar includes ice machines, refrigerators and freezers, keg coolers, glasswashers/dishwashers, bar sinks, and commercial grills. These are essential for keeping drinks at the right temperature, preparing food quickly and efficiently, and maintaining a clean and hygienic workspace. It’s important to invest in high-quality equipment that can handle heavy use and is easy to maintain to ensure smooth operations in your bar.
How can I check the condition of my pub equipment and how often should I do that?
Regular inspection and maintenance of your pub equipment is essential to ensure that they are in good working condition and can perform their functions efficiently. You should check for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or malfunctioning parts on a daily basis. It’s also important to schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional technician to identify any potential problems before they become major issues. The frequency of these checks may vary depending on the type of equipment, but it’s typically recommended to have them done at least once every 6-12 months. By regularly checking the condition of your pub equipment, you can prevent breakdowns.
How much is equipment for a pub?
The cost of equipment for a pub can vary depending on the size of your establishment and the type and quality of equipment you choose to purchase. A basic setup with essential equipment such as refrigerators, bar sinks, and commercial grills can cost anywhere from £10,000 to £20,000. However, if you opt for high-end or specialized equipment such as custom-built bars or top-of-the-line draft beer systems, the cost can easily exceed£50,000 or more. It’s important to carefully consider your budget and needs before making any equipment purchases to ensure that you are getting the best value for money.
In conclusion, owning a pub requires a variety of equipment to keep things running smoothly. From bottle coolers to liquor dispensers, and from glass racks to blenders, it’s important to invest in high-quality equipment that will last for years. Additionally, if you plan on serving food, you’ll need kitchen equipment like grills and fryers. When purchasing equipment, make sure to do your research and compare prices from reputable suppliers. With the right tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to create a welcoming atmosphere that customers will love returning to time and time again.