You need a personal licence from your local authority to sell or supply alcohol. You can get up to five TENs per year, or 50 if you also hold a personal licence. Local authorities strictly regulate liquor permits.
To operate a mobile bar and sell alcohol from it, you need to obtain a Personal Licence and a Temporary Events Notice known as a TENS license and to send a copy of your licences to your local authority. You may also be required to send copies to your local police department and the Environmental Health Officer (EHO).
Events only need licensing if “licensable activities” are taking place, these include: the performance of a play; an exhibition of a film.
Equipment and Costs
To start a mobile bar company, you will need the following:
- Mobile Bar (can be an LED bar or a Portable Flair Station)
- Glassware
- Racks for the glassware
Hiring a mobile bar can cost from £600 – £20,000 depending on the size of the event. Extra charges may apply for remote locations and the event’s duration.
Types of Mobile Bars and Profitability
Your options for a mobile bar business are endless. You could opt to start a mobile cocktail bar, a mobile beer bar, focus on Champagne, Prosecco or wine, or run a general mobile bar.
A mobile bar business involves venues and events serving alcohol and other drinks. It can be hired with or without bartenders, although providing bartenders is likely to generate more business.
Legal Considerations
Aside from the drinks licence, all mobile bars need liability insurance, such as:
- Liability insurance
- Liquor liability insurance
- Commercial auto insurance
These cover accidents, alcohol-related incidents, and the transport of equipment.
UK mobile bars are similar to pop-up pubs but must comply with strict alcohol and safety laws.
Decide whether to sell from a truck, trailer, horsebox or pop-up bar. Each option has its own set of benefits and challenges in terms of professionalism, setup ease, and appearance.
Hiring a mobile bar allows you to personalize your drink selection and save money, offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
A well-thought-out business plan is crucial for outlining objectives and strategies, including purpose, target markets, competition, and marketing. It is also an essential document for attracting financing.