WHAT IS THE TRICK TO INCREASING BAR PROFITS – TOP 5 IDEAS

Cabaret Design Group

What is the trick to increasing bar profits? Today we’ll discuss the top brands of equipment and how liquor inventory services and systems can turn losses into profits. 

Owning and operating a successful nightclub or bar presents many challenges. From keeping up with the latest and most popular brands, to keeping customers happy, to maintaining honesty among the staff, the challenge is formidable. Also bear in mind that the owner really doesn’t want to turn a blind eye to over-serving the clientele. This article will assist bar and nightclub owners with the top brands of bar equipment, why money is lost and how to increase bar profits

Here’s a list of the most popular names in bar equipment:

  • Glastender (@GlastenderCM): underbar stainless, underbar and back bar coolers, glass washers, modular bar die, slide top coolers, mug frosters, cocktail stations, beer dispensing systems, bottle disintegration systems.
  • Perlick (@Perlick): the product line is similar to that of Glastender.
  • Krowne Metal (@KrowneMetal): the product line is similar to that of Glastender.
  • True Manufacturing (@TrueCoolers): underbar and back bar coolers.
  • Easybar (@EasybarBeverage): beverage dispensing systems and liquor control systems.
  • Moyer Diebel: the king of commercial glass washers, especially in the battleground environment known as Las Vegas nightclubs.
  • Chill-Rite Mfg. (@chillrite32): a great line beer dispensing systems, frost rails and innovative liquor dispensing equipment; their ‘Millennium’ system delivers a continuous stream of 32° beer; their ‘Shock-A-Vodka’ system dispenses liquor at 5°


WHAT IS THE BEST BAR EQUIPMENT FOR NIGHTCLUBS AND BARS?

Photo of bar equipment

Several years ago, Glastender was my recommendation. To set the record straight, Perlick builds very good equipment; you can’t go wrong with it. Perlick basically started the industry, going back to 1917. True Manufacturing is the lowest price and highest volume of all the aforementioned, and bear in mind that they don’t have a complete product line. Glastender was founded in 1969 by Jon Hall. According to Tom Zaun of Easybar-Central, “Jon Hall has been the single-most influential personality and guiding force of the bar equipment industry. He has led the industry through innovative, aesthetic and practical design, the likes of which will probably never be duplicated.” Hall invented, among other things, the rotary glass washer and the modular bar die. All the other companies were forced to make innovative changes just to keep-up. As Zaun went on to say, “Replacing bar equipment is not a simple task, because it is all bolted together; Glastender implemented durability into its design so premature removal would no longer be necessary. I dealt with Glastender for many years, but Krowne is my hands-down favorite (more about them later in this article). The back bar coolers shown in the photo above, right are Glastender model BB60-L1-XNH and BB60-R1-XNH, which can be downloaded below.

Downloadable:

Glastender Backbar Cooler Cut Sheet

Given all the above, who’s my personal favorite in 2023?…

STUCK ON YOUR BAR DESIGN? CALL US NOW…

KROWNE METAL – SIMPLY THE BEST!

I have to admit, at one time I thought of Krowne Metal (Krowne) as merely a quality source for bar equipment. Folks, I’m here to tell you that in 2023, Krowne is simply the best! Why the change of opinion? I met the Krowne team at NAFEM23 and I was overwhelmed. Their trade show display was utterly impressive. Correction – World-Class! Krowne is a third-generation family-owned business, and it’s clear to me that CEO Kyle Forman has made the commitment to become the best in every way possible. His grandfather would be proud of him!

Krowne’s equipment is the finest I’ve seen, both in terms of quality and depth of product. They also continue to pave the way with innovative products, such as their “Speed Sinks,” which are available in a number of configurations (see downloadable cut sheet), below. Their glass froster (shown in the video below) is another favorite of mine. I’d be selling Krowne short if I didn’t mention their most impressive asset – their team! Sure, the equipment is fabulous, but even more impressive than their equipment is the company’s staff.

I believe that Krowne’s ongoing success is rooted in their world-class team.

It’s clear to me that all this success didn’t happen by accident. Kyle Forman has managed to build an incredible support base through like-minded employees – the Krowne team.

What I’ve experienced first-hand in the past year, is the terrific culture Forman has created throughout his team. Everybody is pulling in the same direction and it’s inspiring to witness the total buy-in. It appears that Krowne is committed to being the best company in the industry.

Given all the above, I specify Krowne because I want out clients to receive the value!

Downloadable:

Krowne Speed Sinks Cut Sheet

Restaurant and bar planning is our specialty

MEET THE EXPERTS BEHIND OUR SIGNATURE PROJECTS

Our flexible collective of F&B consultants brings deep specialization in bar design, kitchen planning, guest experience, and hospitality strategy. Whether it’s a boutique hotel or a national chain, we assemble elite teams to deliver world-class outcomes.

Meet the Team →

WHAT IS THE TOP REASON BAR OWNERS LOSE MONEY?

BevInco logo
SHOT GLASS WITH FAMILIAR WHITE POUR LINE
The shot is referenced to the bottom of the pour line

So what is the trick to increasing bar profits? The first question you have to ask yourself is ‘What is the top reason bar owners lose money?’ Educate your bartenders. If you have a close personal relationship with your money, listen-up! Let me begin by asking you a question: if you sold 12 oz. steaks in your club or bar, why would you feel compelled to give a customer a 16 oz. steak? If you are a club or bar owner who is in the cultural mindset of giving free drinks away and justifies it by saying, ‘I don’t want my customers complaining,’ then I say you are in the WRONG business! The culture you create with this philosophy is that you are entitling your customers AND your bartenders! These are known as ‘silent partners.’ Believe me, when your bartenders are hip to this, they will apply it liberally – and pad the tip jar in the process. In other words, Mr./Ms. club owner, with this culture you become the LOSER. What I’m going to tell you next will blow your mind. Everyone reading this post, I’m certain, understands what a one-ounce shot glass looks like. It has a white line, which is called the ‘pour line,’ as shown in the photo above, right. The thickness of the pour line is equivalent to 1/8 of an ounce. A standard shot is poured to the bottom of the pour line – not the top. If you consistently fill the shot glass to the top of the pour line (or beyond), you could be losing $48,484 or more per year[1]! In other words, you are giving away at least $13 in profit for every quart of liquor you sell! If you sell a great deal of top-shelf liquor, the losses are at least doubled.


WHAT IS THE TRICK TO INCREASING BAR PROFITS?

Another trick to increasing bar profits is by purchasing a liquor control system – you’ll watch your profits go through the ceiling!

Photo of Easybar liquor system
EASYBAR LIQUOR SYSTEM
The finest liquor dispensing system
  • A liquor control system will consistently dispense liquor to within 1/32 of an ounce. At an investment of $7,000 – $10,000 per station, the return-on-investment (ROI) for a liquor control station is about three months. Where can you get an ROI like that?!
  • Liquor control systems are programmed to pour multi-portioned cocktails and will do your bookkeeping for you. You can read my evaluation of the top liquor control systems (refer below).
  • If you are only reporting the sale of each drink to the POS system, recording the sale is only as honest as the bartender. However, with a liquor control system, the sale of each drink is reported directly to your office computer AND to your POS system and will not allow the bartender to void the sale once it is entered.


Tap beer control systems work in a similar fashion, where the pour of each faucet is controlled and reported to the office computer and POS system. Tap beer control systems cost around $500 for the first faucet and around $250 for each additional faucet. Any bar owner who isn’t taking advantage of liquor control pouring is a partner to his/her customers and bartenders.


HOW CAN BAR OWNERS SHOW CUSTOMER APPRECIATION AND INCREASE BAR PROFITS?

Simple. If you really want to demonstrate your customer appreciation, and you are the owner, walk up to them at the bar, shake their hands and pay for their drinks with money out of your pocket. If you like to occasionally have your bartenders extend this token of appreciation, have them pay with their own money – but IF AND ONLY IF they furnish you with receipts!

WHAT’S THE TAKEAWAY OF TRICKS TO INCREASING BAR PROFITS?

The above is a sample of the tricks to increasing bar profits. There are certainly more. The bottom line is you are in the business to make money, so get after it!


1 Based on 12 32 oz. bottles of liquor per day, 310 days per year and a price of $3.50 per drink

Need Help Planning Your restaurant and bar?

From concept to construction, our expert consultants help you plan every step. Book a free discovery call today.
Your Ad Could Be Here on Cabaret Design Group Website
Your Ad Could Be Here on Cabaret Design Group Website
Your Ad Could Be Here on Cabaret Design Group Website
Your Ad Could Be Here on Cabaret Design Group Website

RICK UZUBELL

President of Cabaret Design Group, Rick holds a degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, and is a F&B consultant and well-known bar design expert with years of experience serving hotels, restaurants, sports bars and destination bars. He has developed a command of bar design solutions involving ergonomics, equipment, systems and finishes that bridges the "Gray Zone" between interior designers and architects. He's also a champion of ADA design in commercial bar applications. Through his unique architectural engineering approach he calls "Integrated Bar Design," Rick solves complex bar design challenges beyond the expertise of typical design professionals. His proudest achievements include curved bar design solutions using the modular bar die system and steel as a core design element. As a commercial bar design specialist, Rick has cutting-edge knowledge of draft beer systems, liquor systems, keg room design and batch cocktail systems. He will add significant value to any commercial bar design project. Rick is a proud member of the F&B consortium known as the "Magnificent 7". Additionally, he has authored nearly 100 articles and 80 YouTube videos on the topic of bar design, and these can be found on his Cabaret Design Group website and @bardesigners YouTube channel. Today, Rick's influence extends across the U.S., Canada, and various offshore applications.
Scroll To Top
Sam Winer, audio and video specialist for security-integrated food and beverage consulting

Sam Winer

AV + Security Specialist | President,
WinStar Video Security

Sam Winer leads WinStar Video Security with over 20 years of experience designing and installing advanced surveillance, audio, and communications systems for restaurants, bars, and QSR chains. His firm delivers HD, AI-powered security systems, immersive AV experiences, and cellular signal boosting that meets the demands of modern hospitality venues.

From single-unit lounges to high-volume chains, Sam’s work focuses on guest experience, loss prevention, and operational reliability. He’s known for helping operators select the right systems — then install and maintain them for long-term performance.

Sam is a trusted integrator for projects that require technical precision and rock-solid uptime — whether building from scratch, upgrading legacy systems, or opening at scale.

James Farley, structural engineer supporting food and beverage design for commercial hospitality builds

James Farley, PE, SE

Structural Engineer | Owner,
MC Squared, Inc.

James Farley is a licensed structural engineer with deep experience designing commercial buildings across the U.S. He is the owner and principal at MC Squared, Inc., where he leads structural design for a wide range of mid-rise hospitality, retail, and mixed-use projects.

James specializes in turning complex architectural visions into sound, code-compliant structures. His work spans steel, wood, concrete, and hybrid systems — and he’s known for his speed, clarity, and ability to collaborate closely with design teams to support aesthetics without compromising performance.

Licensed in multiple states, including Washington and Arkansas, James plays a vital role in bar and restaurant projects that demand both technical integrity and visual impact.

Garrett Lennon, foodservice design consultant for healthcare, higher ed, and hospitality projects

Garrett Lennon

Design Consultant | President,
JLR Design Group

Garrett Lennon brings over 20 years of experience across foodservice operations, kitchen design, and consulting. As President and Principal of JLR Design Group, he leads projects in hospitality, healthcare, higher education, and institutional environments — where functionality, compliance, and guest satisfaction must align.

With a background in both management and engineering, Garrett excels at bridging frontline realities with technical performance. His team is known for translating operational needs into layouts that perform day after day, year after year.

Whether supporting a hospital kitchen upgrade, a campus dining overhaul, or a high-volume hospitality venue, Garrett focuses on designs that last — clean, compliant, and centered on the user experience.

Dylan Halaszynski, food hall design expert and compliance-driven food and beverage consultant

Dylan Halaszynski

Food Hall Specialist | Founder,
Bayard FSD

Dylan Halaszynski launched Bayard Food Service Design with a singular goal: to bring sharp technical fluency to the complex world of nontraditional foodservice models. His work focuses on unique formats like food halls, shared prep kitchens, and market-style dining — where code compliance and creative layouts must coexist.

With a background in construction management and boutique consulting, Dylan’s superpower is translating regulatory code into efficient, scalable spaces. He’s worked closely with Departments of Health across multiple U.S. jurisdictions and is known for identifying and solving challenges that would stall less experienced teams.

As an FCSI professional, Dylan pairs technical credibility with a next-gen mindset. He’s a go-to strategist for clients exploring urban revitalization projects, hospitality incubators, and unconventional culinary concepts — helping them move quickly, stay compliant, and stand out.

Kevin Moll, hospitality advisor and multi-unit food and beverage consultant

Kevin Moll

Hospitality Advisor | President,
Restaurant Consulting Services

Kevin Moll is a 39-year hospitality veteran, known for his unmatched insight into startup strategy, turnaround planning, and talent acquisition. As President of Restaurant Consulting Services, Inc. and its sister company Restaurant Recruiting Pros, he delivers full-spectrum solutions — from concept to culture.

His operational experience spans World’s Fair-scale foodservice, multi-unit ownership, and high-performance recruiting. He’s been featured on ABC’s Nightline, authored two books, and founded “Mystery Shoppers,” a global brand trusted by operators worldwide.

Kevin blends street-smart practicality with boardroom-level advisory, making him an invaluable partner to entrepreneurs, executives, and investors alike. Whether launching a new brand or revitalizing an underperforming venue, his work bridges hospitality intuition with data-driven execution — unlocking growth where others see obstacles.

Lu Schildmeyer, restaurant and bar design specialist with deep expertise in foodservice facility consulting

Lu Schildmeyer

FCSI Designer | Founder,
LU S Design Associates

Lu Schildmeyer has shaped more than 2,800 hospitality environments across the U.S. and Canada — including over 700 restaurants and 600 bars. With nearly four decades of experience in foodservice facility design, custom stainless steel millwork, and health code compliance, Lu is a trusted specialist for operators who demand technical precision and operational fluidity.

His work spans every segment of the hospitality industry — from boutique bistros to high-volume entertainment venues — where performance, durability, and code alignment must all coexist. Known for practical layouts and forward-thinking BOH integration, Lu brings peace of mind to architects, developers, and chefs who want their kitchens to run as smoothly as their dining rooms.

As an FCSI member, Lu blends aesthetic coordination with engineer-grade accuracy. His shop drawings are regarded as gold standard in foodservice environments, and his ability to anticipate permitting, clearance, and sanitation requirements has saved clients time, risk, and rework at every stage of the build.

Craig Pendleton, food and beverage consultant with a focus on tribal gaming and high-performance dining operations

Craig Pendleton

F & B Consultant | Founder,
National Foodservice Consulting

With more than 50 years in the food and beverage industry, Craig Pendleton brings unmatched operational insight to every project he touches. From national brands to independent operators, his advisory work is grounded in deep experience and a no-nonsense approach to profitability, workflow, and guest experience.

Over the past three decades, Craig has helped launch more than 100 successful venues — including restaurants, casinos, and specialty dining concepts across the U.S. His consulting engagements focus on marrying smart design with real-world management, often bridging the gap between creative vision and operational execution.

Craig’s expertise is especially valued in Tribal gaming environments, where sovereignty, cultural fluency, and long-term sustainability must align. He approaches these partnerships with respect, precision, and a commitment to self-determination — creating foodservice strategies that support community goals while optimizing guest satisfaction and fiscal results.

Colin Addley, global construction strategist and food and beverage consultant for hospitality development

COLIN ADDLEY, MCIOB

Construction Strategist | Founder,
ADDMORE Services

Colin Addley is a Chartered Builder (MCIOB) with over 40 years of experience leading complex construction projects across six continents. His expertise spans construction management, quantity surveying, and international development strategy — particularly in hospitality, resorts, and commercial spaces.

As the founder of ADDMORE Services, Colin works with a global network of professionals he’s personally vetted — including quantity surveyors, site engineers, project managers, and planners — all of whom operate with the same rigor and high-performance mindset. He’s directed projects in the UK, UAE, South Africa, Germany, and North America, earning a reputation for precise execution on fast-moving, high-stakes initiatives.

Whether it’s developing a new food hall in Johannesburg, overseeing a hospitality rollout in the Gulf States, or helping U.S. brands expand overseas, Colin brings logistical clarity and on-the-ground insight to every venture. His work consistently blends old-school project discipline with contemporary collaboration — making him a powerhouse for any project that spans borders, teams, or time zones.

Rick Uzubell, bar design expert and food and beverage consultant specializing in integrated bar systems

Rick Uzubell

Bar Design Expert | Founder,
Cabaret Design Group

Rick Uzubell is a recognized authority in commercial bar design — especially in the elusive “Gray Zone” where architecture, code, and performance intersect. As the creator of Integrated Bar Design, he solves complex spatial and system challenges beyond the reach of typical design professionals.

His signature touches — curved bars, modular steel systems, and ADA-first layouts — have shaped elite projects across the U.S., Canada, and offshore markets. With nearly 100 published articles and over 80 YouTube videos, Rick is a prolific voice for smarter, more profitable bar environments.

Rick’s method blends aesthetic flow with compliance-forward spatial logic — resolving the often-overlooked tensions between building codes, bar efficiency, and guest engagement. His modular steel systems have become a calling card for operators who want high-volume throughput without sacrificing service quality or ADA inclusion.

Beyond design, Rick is a thought leader and educator in the hospitality space. His articles and videos have helped thousands of restaurateurs, architects, and consultants rethink the way bars are built — and how they perform.