1. Pick a Location – You need to decide where your cafe should be and whether or not it can accommodate enough people and games. Research the area accordingly and make sure you have space for game tables and areas for customers to sit comfortably.
2. Secure Financing – You’ll need to acquire financing for your Board Game Cafe in order to cover the cost of rent, furniture and other operational expenses. Consider loan options from banks or investors, or you may even be able to use crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter.
3. Create a Business Plan – Put together an effective business plan that outlines your goals, objectives and strategies for success. Include a budget for expenses, marketing plan and customer service plan.
4. Acquire Inventory – You’ll need to acquire a good selection of games for your Board Game Cafe. Look into purchasing used games or even trading with other establishments in exchange for food or drinks.
5. Hire Employees – Consider the type of staff you’ll need for your Board Game Cafe. You’ll need servers, bartenders and game hosts who can help customers find the right game or explain rules of play.
6. Develop Menu Options – Decide what type of food and drinks you would like to offer at your cafe. Make sure that the menu compliments the types of games you offer and consider offering special discounts and combos.
7. Promote Your Business – Get the word out about your Board Game Cafe by taking advantage of social media and other digital marketing platforms. You could also consider advertising in local newspapers, radio stations or on TV.
8. Set-up Payment Systems – Make sure that you have a secure payment system in place for customers to pay for their food and drinks. Look into using online payment options or accepting credit cards at your cafe.
9. Train Staff – Once you have hired employees, make sure that they are adequately trained in customer service, handling payments and other operational duties such as cleaning up after customers.
10. Launch Your Cafe – When everything is ready, promote an opening event or launch party to bring customers in and generate interest. Make sure that the atmosphere is welcoming and enjoy your new venture!