5 Reasons Your Taproom Needs a Covered Beer Garden
Your microbrewery's taproom is an important part of the business. It provides not only exposure but additional sales that boost the bottom line as well. Because it's such a vital component of making a profit and growing the business, any way to improve the taproom is an improvement to the brewery as a whole.
One easy way to boost taproom profit is to add a covered outdoor patio or beer garden. Why should you invest in a covered space? Here are five ways it can make a financial difference.
1. Increased Visibility
Many new microbreweries are housed in large business parks and crowded downtown areas. It's hard to get noticed when you blend in with the background. A covered beer garden, though, draws attention. With a large, professional awning featuring your signature colors and brand logo, the taproom is easily seen from a distance.
Already have an uncovered beer garden? Many taproom's outdoor patios are hidden in parking lots, around back, or behind production areas. In this case, a bold awning will inexpensively and easily direct people.
2. Expansion Without Expansion
Is your taproom already busy? You may need to move to a bigger location to keep up with customer growth. But such a move threatens to dilute your current customer base before you can add more in the new area.
One simple solution is to expand outward rather than move. Whether in front of your brewery or behind it, an outdoor beer garden can provide the additional square footage that you need for very little investment. Add a wide, inviting connection leading to a large awning and a few tables for an inexpensive, basic addition. Add a second bar and taps for a more permanent expansion project.
3. An Additional Venue
Two separate and comfortable spaces allow you to do more with the same location. You could host a booming trivia night while still providing a space for regular customers who don't want to participate. Or designate a space for private events without having to close the entire taproom for the duration. Many of your regulars will appreciate having a spot for those who want to sit and relax and those who like to party.
4. New Customer Appeal
An attractive, covered outdoor drinking area increases your opportunity to sell to new customer bases. If the business is located in a walkable part of town, for instance, are you appealing to dog owners? The beer garden is a great place to encourage people to bring their pets, providing water and a few treats to occupy the pups while customers enjoy a relaxing beer outdoors.
An open patio can also attract bicyclists, tourists, and even business people in a hurry. It is more welcoming and less intimidating for potential customers who might be leery of committing by stepping inside.
5. Protection from the Elements
Your outdoor patio won't attract many customers at all if people can't use it due to the weather. Florida taprooms need to add some kind of protection from the natural elements. You'll need overhead cover from the burning summer heat as well as sturdy winter cover from rain and wind. If you already have an outdoor space that is underutilized, consider the potential boost from putting a roof over its head.
Undoubtedly, a covered patio dining area is an easy way to make your microbrewery's taproom more visible, more functional, and more appealing. Ready to start work on your own? Begin by talking with the outdoor covering experts at Sunstate Awning today. Together, we can create the perfect way to invite your new and existing customers outside.