How to Start a Pool Hall Business

Many people enjoy visiting pool halls.

Many people enjoy playing pool, whether they're top-notch players or novices just looking for a way to relax and hang out with friends. Pool halls, especially the ones that keep clean, attractive facilities and offer customers extra services, can be very lucrative business ventures. Though it will require quite a bit of planning, opening a pool hall business can be quite enjoyable.

Instructions

1. Target your market. For example, you can cater to college and university students, families, businessmen or even bikers. Keep your target market in mind when setting your atmosphere, menu and amenities.

2. Obtain the necessary permits. Depending on where you live, you may need an assumed name certificate (DBA), employer identification number (EIN), sales tax license or state tax identification number.

3. Secure a location. Ensure there is enough room for all your pool tables and equipment, as well as guest seating and a bar or cafe area.

4. Purchase equipment from a supplier like Cue Sight or Billiard Warehouse. Aside from pool tables, cues and balls, you will need lighting, tables, chairs, bar stools, decor and signage.

5. Develop a menu of beverages and snacks. For maximum profits, you should offer alcoholic drinks, but then you will have to obtain a liquor license and follow state regulations on alcohol sales and consumption. Alternatively, offer water and soft drinks. Snacks common in pool halls include nachos, burritos, burgers, hot dogs, popcorn, nuts, chips and pizza.

6. Add extra amenities to make your pool hall stand out from your competition. For example, perhaps offer darts, video games or a lounge area with televisions playing the latest sporting events and scores.

7. Promote your new pool hall. Launch a website and place fliers and coupons in complementary businesses like bars, video game stores and bowling alleys. Hold discount playing nights and have live entertainment from local bands.

Tips & Warnings

• Also retail pool cues and accessories to earn extra revenue. Check with your state to see if a resale permit is required.

References

• Work.com: Guide to Starting a Pool Hall
• Entrepreneur Business Idea Center: Billiards Hall