Starting a sub shop is not a cheap investment, but with a realistic business plan, a delicious menu and the zeal to succeed it can be a path to a rewarding business venture. According to the National Restaurant Association, America’s restaurant industry is the second largest private-sector employer in the country.
Essentially, a sub shop is an eatery that, different from a traditional restaurant, provides quick and healthy meals to people on the go. Although business start up plans vary depending on the type and scale of the business being started, there are a few general steps you can take when starting a sub shop.
Step 1
Write a business plan giving the reasons for starting the business and what sets your business apart from other competitors. Include your business goals and objectives.
Step 2
Find a suitable location to set up your sub shop. Suitable locations include busy urban areas like malls and colleges where many people visit. Ensure the location is easily accessible and it has ample parking space.
Step 3
Obtain a business license and permit. Visit a government health inspection office and apply for a license to operate a food and beverage business. Apply for a business permit from your local municipality office.
Step 4
Purchase the equipment and furniture you will need for your sub shop, including chairs, tables, refrigerators and stoves.
Step 5
Make sure to establish a relationship with the people who will supply food ingredients like meat, bread and cheese for your business on a regular basis.This will ensure that you never run out of food supplies
Step 6
Set up the business. Arrange the furniture in the sub shop with the help of a few people, including tables and chairs. Perform interior decorations to make the business premises attractive.
Step 7
Now it is time to hire competent staff that will help you run the sub shop, including cooks, waiters and cashiers. You can start with only a small staff and gradually employ more staff as your business grows.
Step 8
Advertise your sub shop in local print and broadcast media like radio and newspaper. Distribute flyers and coupons with your menu in your neighborhood.
Step 9
Start an opening promotion to encourage people to try your sub shop. Offer a buy-one-get-one-free promotion to draw attention to your business. You should begin to see regular customers on a daily basis.
Remember that you can always purchase a sub shop franchise if you do not want to go it alone when starting a sub shop. Sub shop empires like Subway offer franchising that come with name recognition, branding, marketing, uniforms, decorations and a food supplier.