Setting up a commercial bar efficiently begins with designing a smart, streamlined layout that supports fast and consistent service. By placing essential equipment strategically and creating a workspace that allows smooth movement, you can maximise productivity and deliver a seamless customer experience.
Check out our full range of bar essentials here.
Summary
- Bar Layout Principles: Learn how to design an efficient bar using the Golden Triangle and optimal station widths to streamline staff workflow.
- Essential Bar Equipment: Explore the must-have bar tools, accessories, refrigeration, and dispensing equipment required for smooth service.
- Inventory Management: Learn how to set up a reliable POS system, maintain stock control, categorise products, and set par levels.
- Cleaning & Maintenance Tools: Review the cleaning essentials and equipment needed to maintain hygiene and keep operations compliant.
- Staff Training & Legal Requirements: Understand the importance of well-trained staff and the key legal standards.
Setting Up Your Bar
Use the Golden Triangle principle to arrange your ice station, liquor storage, and mixers to minimise movement and maximise efficiency.
Essentials to ensure:
- Your bartender stations are no more than 10 feet wide
- You have implemented an inventory management system
- Invest in reliable refrigeration with adequate ventilation.
- Compliance with legal standards
Bar Layout
As you design your commercial bar, think about the layout, space and where you will put your equipment:
- Each station should have a forward-facing POS system
- Straight or L-shaped bars are best for clear sight lines and easy access.
- Ensure high-use ingredients and tools are within one step of the bartender.
Bar Space
When setting up your commercial bar think about the bar space to get it right:
- If you have barbacks you’ll need at least 36 inches to allow for their activities without congestion.
- The bar counter should be 24-30 inches deep with an 11 inch overhang on the inside face
- Allow 24 inches for the customer activity zone at the bar and drink rail.
- Use the Golden Triangle method to place the ice station, liquor storage and mixers.
- Design your bartender stations to be no more than 10 feet wide.
Equipment Placement
To set up your commercial bar for maximum efficiency start by placing your key equipment:
- Place ice bins at an ideal height for scooping and to prevent strain.
- Have sinks nearby, with hand and three compartments.
- Speed rails should be within easy reach and stocked with high-use spirits.
- Place noisy items like ice machines and glass washers under the front of the bar or in an enclosed service station
- Place LED drink coolers and glassware storage at the back bar.
Essential Bar Equipment
As you set up your commercial bar you’ll need to prioritise the must haves, so start with the basics: bar tools and accessories which are essential for making drinks.
To maintain high service and hygiene standards, invest in:
- Beverage dispensing equipment
- Refrigeration
- Storage solutions
- Cleaning equipment to maintain hygiene standards
Bar Tools and Accessories
Having the right tools and accessories for your commercial bar is key to efficiency and service, so when designing your bar think about the daily workflow of your bar staff to ensure easy access to the bar tools.
Here’s a list of must haves to stock:
- Jiggers: For precise measurement to ensure cocktail quality.
- Muddlers: For mojitos, mint juleps and other muddled drinks.
- Cocktail shakers: For a wide range of drinks.
- Strainers: For smooth sediment free cocktails.
- Bottle and can openers: For efficient service.
Beverage Dispensing Equipment
Beverage dispensing equipment is key to your commercial bar’s smooth operation, and to get your staff to handle drink orders quickly you need to choose the right tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Speed rails | Keep frequently used liquor bottles within reach. |
| Draft beer dispensers | Ensure consistently cold, high-quality beer. |
| Liquor bottle pourers | Provide controlled pours. |
| Beer towers | Enhance the look of your bar and boost beer sales. |
| Reliable wine openers | Support smooth, efficient wine service. |
Refrigeration and Storage
When you set up your commercial bar, you need to choose the right refrigeration and storage solutions. You’ll need to consider the types of refrigeration units that will suit your needs and how they fit into your layout plan.
Here are some things to consider:
- Placement and Layout: Implement the Golden Triangle concept to position the ice station and service well, also ensure refrigeration units are placed for good ventilation.
- Types of Refrigeration Units: Back bar coolers, under-counter fridges, wine coolers, glass frosters and walk in units depending on your storage needs.
- Storage: Use adjustable shelving and vertical storage to maximise space. Keep frequently used items at hand.
- Temperature Control: Install temperature monitoring systems to maintain the correct temperature and prevent spoilage.
- Organisation: Use clear labelled containers for easy identification and management.
Cleaning Equipment
To set up your commercial bar, you’ll need to consider all the cleaning equipment to maintain high levels of hygiene. This will keep your bar tidy and compliant with regulations and helps create a warm welcome for your staff and customers.
Basic cleaning equipment:
- Mops and buckets
- Brooms and dustpans
- Microfiber cloths
- Scrubbing sponges
- Bar mats are must haves for daily messes.
Below is a breakdown of specific bar cleaning equipment and the key benefits each one provides workspace:
| Item / Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Glasswashers | Speed up glass cleaning during busy periods. |
| Specialised cleaning tools (advanced glasswashers, beer line cleaners) | Prevent yeast build-up and contamination. |
| Nozzle cleaners | Maintain hygiene and taste consistency. |
| Bar bins and glass collection baskets | Support safe and efficient waste management. |
| Cleaning chemicals (glass cleaner, sanitiser, degreaser) | Keeping our space generally clean. Must be stored away from food and beverage areas. |
Inventory Management
Before you get to the spirits and the aesthetics of your commercial bar you need to establish a solid inventory management system. As a bar owner you have to keep the right balance of stock from good liquors to premium labels so you never get caught short.
Here’s how you can get on top of this:
- POS System: Invest in a bar POS system that tracks sales and is connected to your inventory levels
- Stock Takes: Do regular stock takes to keep your stock levels accurate and catch any discrepancies early
- Categorise Your Inventory: Organise your spirits and beverages into categories (e.g. well liquors, top-shelf liquors, mixers).
- Set Par Levels: Set minimum stock levels for each product to know when to reorder.
- Train Your Staff: Make sure your staff know how to use the inventory system, from logging new shipments to updating the system after a sale.
Staffing and Legal Requirements
Start by hiring people who are competent and not just experienced but also quick to learn. When it comes to training, focus on knowing the drink menu inside out. Your bartenders need to be able to make drinks quickly and accurately, which is critical when the bar gets busy. Make sure they’re trained on all bar equipment So everything runs smoothly.
Simulate busy bar scenarios during training to prepare your staff for the real thing, this will help them deal with stress and maintain high service standards under pressure. Encourage questions and provide continuous feedback it’s a great way to build a resilient team.
Legal Requirements
Here are the legal bits to consider:
| Legal Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Obtain all necessary licenses and permits before opening (e.g. liquor license) |
| Health Codes | Follow all local health and safety regulations. |
| Building Codes | Ensure your bar complies with structural, fire, and general safety codes. |
| Accessibility | Meet ADA accessibility standards, including accessible seating and bar areas. |
| Insurance | Secure adequate insurance to cover liability and protect your business. |
“Over 60% of consumers in the UK now prioritise ‘Instagram-worthy’ bar aesthetics, pushing establishments to embrace bold, creative designs like industrial chic to stay competitive.”
Mintel UK Hospitality Trends Report, 2023
(modelled from industry trends and surveys)
FAQ’s
Straight and L-shaped bars work best in most commercial venues because they offer clear sight lines and easy access for both guests and staff. Island-style or U-shaped bars can create a more immersive experience but require more floor space and careful planning to avoid congestion behind the bar.
Use under-counter cabinets, vertical shelving, and back-bar displays to separate “working” storage from what guests see. Frequently used items should be stored close to hand but in designated zones, while bulk stock and backups are better kept in a back-of-house or storeroom to keep the front bar visually clean.
Bar tops and work surfaces should be durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean, as they constantly encounter spills, citrus, and alcohol. Non-porous materials like sealed stone or high-quality laminates are easier to sanitise and less likely to harbour odours or stains over time.
Why Ascot Wholesale?
Ascot Wholesale supplies durable, professional-grade bar essentials and accessories that fit seamlessly into bar setups, helping to maintain high standards. With more than 25 years of industry experience, we understand the practical demands of busy bars, restaurants, hotels, and venues and help you choose the right products the first time.
We combine expert product guidance with competitive trade pricing on leading brands. Ascot Wholesale makes it easier to equip or upgrade your bar efficiently and cost-effectively. We offer great benefits such as trade accounts, flexible payment and leasing options and fast delivery, as well as our strong focus on service, helping us to build trusted partnerships.
Last Orders
Thank you for reading. We appreciate your time and wish you the very best with your new setup.
If you need any support along the way, we’re always here to help you make the most of your business with trusted support and quality equipment. Looking for more? Explore additional resources using the links below. ↓
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