Small cider bar with a local following

Locals, after-work groups, cider and real ale fans, and visitors looking for something different from a standard pub.

Customers pay for drinks over the bar. You buy from producers or wholesalers and sell at a margin, with extra from snacks, events and tasting flights.

• Customer service
• Knowledge of cider and perry styles
• Stock control and cellar care
• Managing a small team

• You will need a premises licence and a designated premises supervisor with a personal licence, check with your local council
• Planning use class and opening hours for the premises, check before signing a lease
• Public liability insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire staff
• Register as a food business with your council if you serve food, and check food hygiene requirements
• Rent, business rates and evening and weekend working can strain cash flow

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £25,000 to £100,000, depending on the premises, fit-out, licensing and opening stock. Rent, business rates and evening and weekend working can strain cash flow, so plan your finances carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on location, opening hours and how many regulars you attract. Estimates suggest at least 40 hours a week, with skills in customer service, stock control and cellar care.

Check with your local council: you will need a premises licence and a designated premises supervisor with a personal licence. Also check the planning use class and opening hours before signing a lease, and food business registration and hygiene requirements if you serve food.