Is Running A Bar a Good Biz?
Ken Muturi, a young entrepreneur from Gakwegori, runs a small bar selling beer and other drinks.
Ken says he started his business after noticing a high demand for beer in his area. This inspired him to set up a bar that would serve his community while providing him with daily income.
Motivation yake kila siku is simple: to earn a living, stay independent, and gain confidence in handling business. “I identified a market demand for beer in my area,” he says.
Starting the bar required some capital. To start, he needed KSh 100,000 to set up his bar, covering essential expenses.
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With support from friends and people in his area, he was able to gather the funds needed to start his business.
His first customers came from the local community, walitoka bureti karibu na kwetu, and they found him through word of mouth and Facebook.
Ken focused on offering good services, making sure clients were satisfied and received fair prices. This approach kept people returning and recommending his bar to others, helping him grow steadily.
Requirements to Start a Bar Business in Kenya
Starting a bar in Kenya requires planning and some upfront costs:
•Licences: Liquor license and business permit.
•Rent
•Shelves Installation: To display drinks properly.
•Stock: Initial purchase of beer and other beverages.
Ken managed these requirements by starting small, using community support, and ensuring he complied with local rules.
Challenges in the Alcohol Business
Like any business, selling alcohol comes with challenges:
•People not paying their bills, which affects cash flow.
•High competition from other bars and informal sellers.
•Transport and supply costs for getting stock regularly.
•Legal compliance, as violations of licensing laws can result in fines or closure.
•Occasional low customer turnout, especially during off-peak seasons.
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Despite these challenges, Ken enjoys his hustle because it provides daily income, helps him gain experience, and builds confidence in running a business.
MESH has helped him feel more capable of running his hustle and looking for new opportunities to expand. While the business is still growing, he has gained confidence in everything, from managing finances to interacting with clients and understanding business processes.
Ken’s advice to other MESHers is simple: start with what you have, focus on offering good service, be confident and patient. Liquor Business 101: What it Takes to Start (Kenyan Edition)