With the juice and smoothie business now a $2.5 billion industry, it's easy to see why you would want to open a juice bar. These shops, called juice bars in some regions and smoothie shops in others, offer made-to-order blended juice drinks to customers. With the right location, this can quickly turn into a profitable business if you follow the right steps.
Instructions
1. Find a location for your business. The location is the key to your success. You want it in a high-traffic area. Many people like smoothies for breakfast, so look for locations that people will walk or drive by on their way to work. Think about offering a drive-through to make it easier for customers to purchase on the go.
2. Consider a juice bar franchise. A juice or smoothie franchise can help you get started by offering brand name recognition and a complete training program. The downside is that you have to meet strict requirements and pay substantial up-front fees. For example, to become a franchisee of Jamba Juice, you need to have a $1 million net worth and $350,000 in liquid assets, plus pay a franchise fee of $15,000 to $25,000. In exchange, you'll receive six weeks of in-house training and the ability to use the Jamba Juice name.
3. Secure funding for your juice bar. A business loan can help you get started. If possible, get a line of credit. You'll pay less in interest because you'll owe it only on the money that you use.
4. Purchase juicing and restaurant equipment. You'll need to purchase everything that you need for your store, including refrigeration, juice machines, mixers and cash registers. Keep in mind that because you'll be serving juice, you'll need more refrigeration than many other types of restaurant businesses.
5. Set up your location. Design your juice shop so that it is pleasing to the eye. Depending on your location, you may not have to worry about setting up booths or chairs for customers if most of your orders will be take-out.
6. Create a juice menu with some unusual features. Try different recipes to create unique flavors. You should have a few standbys, like strawberry and banana, but also include exotic flavors like passion fruit or guava. Vitamin or protein powders can boost the nutritional content.
7. Hire dedicated employees who are interested in health and wellness. You need reliable, friendly and interested employees to help your customers. Take time to find the right people.
8. Offer opening day discounts to attract customers. Offer free samples outside your store so