Your own LGBTQ+ bar or nightclub

LGBTQ+ customers and allies who pay entry on busy nights and buy drinks. You may also earn from private hires and ticketed events.

Mostly bar sales, plus entry fees, ticketed events, private hire and sponsorship. Main costs are rent, staff, stock, licences, music and security.

• Running a bar and managing staff
• Managing cash flow and stock
• Building a loyal community and brand
• Handling difficult situations calmly

• A premises licence is needed to sell alcohol and play music late, and you will need a personal licence holder as designated premises supervisor (rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland, so check locally)
• Planning use class, noise limits and neighbour objections can affect whether a venue is approved
• Check music licences (PPL PRS), fire risk assessment and capacity limits
• Door staff usually need to be SIA licensed, check requirements
• Employer's liability insurance once you hire, plus public liability and property cover
• High fixed costs and thin margins, so a quiet few months can be risky
• Customer safety and a clear policy on harassment and drink spiking

Startup costs are typically around £50,000 to £250,000, depending on the premises, fit-out and licensing. High fixed costs and thin margins mean a quiet few months can be risky, so check your numbers carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £20,000 to £90,000, depending on opening nights, entry income, drinks sales and private hires. This is revenue, not profit, and you should expect to work at least 40 hours a week.

Check you have a premises licence to sell alcohol and play music late, and a personal licence holder as designated premises supervisor (rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland). Also check planning use class, noise limits, music licences, fire risk assessment, capacity limits and SIA requirements.