All You Need to Know About Opening a Hookah Lounge

Hookah or Shisha lounges have become an increasingly popular alternative to the usual bar scene. However, despite the laid-back environment of hookah dens, opening one takes quite a bit of planning and drive. Here is how to start a successful shisha bar.

Create a Business Plan for the Hookah Lounge

Your first step should be to craft a business plan that includes aspects like objectives, mission statement, ownership pattern, and start-up capital. A comprehensive business plan will help you ensure your daily operations are smooth. It’ll also help you attain your short-term goals.

Your plan should address the following aspects of business:

• Your start-up and recurring costs
• Your pricing strategy
• Your target customers
• Your customer acquisition strategy

Name Your Hookah Lounge Business

Your business name is an essential component of your brand. So consider various names and select one that embodies the essence of your hookah business. Before you register your name, you should research the name by checking:

• State and federal trademark records
• State’s business records
• Wed domain availability
• Social media platforms

Licenses & Permits

Smoking regulations vary by city, county, and state, so do your research on the smoking laws in your area and how they apply to your enterprise. You’ll also need to get a license to sell tobacco products. Furthermore, if you’ll be selling alcoholic beverages in your establishment, you’ll need to get the required permits. Many shisha lounges choose to serve tea instead of alcoholic beverages because it’s a more affordable beverage option that comes with fewer age restrictions and less red tape.

Choose a Proper Location

Finding a suitable location is essential for the success of your business. The location should be close enough to the city, and it should provide your customers with a tranquil environment.

Right Set-Up Is Necessary

Smoking hookah is meant to be a relaxing sort of social activity for your clients, and so you should focus on the ambiance of your establishment. So create a relaxing atmosphere that will encourage clients to linger for longer. To enhance the customer experience, you should incorporate longer stays. Jukeboxes are also a classic component of hookah lounges.

Hooker Lounge Starting Cost

The start capital for starting a hooker lounge is about $40,000. This price covers the cost of getting retail space. It also covers insurance and licensing. Other costs include purchasing shisha and useable hookahs.

Hookah Lounge Business Supplies

You need to find a supplier for the raw materials for preparing hooker smoke. You should also source disposable hookahs, hoses, and bowls. Ensure your lounge offers a wide variety of smoking options.

Hiring Necessary Manpower

Some people develop palates for hookah, just like it’s with craft beer and fine dining. So when your hire employees, ensure they understand the art of preparing shisha as well as the culture that surrounds it.

Promotion of Your Hookah Lounge Business

New businesses usually need a little marketing push to take off. Fortunately, shisha communities are very connected and usually keep tabs on new shisha businesses. Therefore, you should take advantage of word-of-mouth to get your name out there. You should also consider placing ads in local papers and on social media to help create awareness about your brand.

Carry the Right Insurance Policy

Importantly, to protect your business, you need to carry the right insurance coverage. At RMS Insurance Brokerage, LLC, we provide customized hookah lounge insurance that’ll adequately protect you, your customers, and your business. Contact our professionals today.