In our previous post, we discussed the pros and cons of using a liquor dispensing system to track what is being poured at your bar. For some bars and restaurants, this option works very well. However, there are certain problems associated with liquor dispensing systems that make it a less than ideal fit for many other establishments.

If you feel that a liquor dispensing system is not the right fit for your bar, you may want to consider using a liquor inventory system. Most inventory systems work by physically counting how much of each product is in your bar during a particular time period. In our experience, there is no substitute for compiling this important data.

There are three main liquor inventory system options to choose from:

• Full service – These are extremely effective. They are easy to use and easy to set up. When you choose a full service inventory system, a third party professional will handle every aspect of the process for you. The primary downside with this option is the cost. Full service liquor inventory systems are by far the most expensive option.

• DIY – Do-it-yourself (DIY) systems are the most affordable option. They provide you with all the tools necessary to take inventory. The main downside to this option is that you have to do everything yourself. You receive no help with problem solving and you often waste a lot of time troubleshooting issues. This can make DIY inventory systems difficult to implement. They become particularly challenging when a manager leaves and you have to train a new person on the complex process associated with your particular DIY inventory system.

• Hybrid – Hybrid liquor inventory systems, such as Bar-i’s system, offer you the best of both worlds. You do all the counting, enabling you to keep your costs down. Bar-i will take care of the set-up process and train you on how to work the system. We will also perform all data analysis and provide you with a detailed report containing accurate and actionable information, along with a series of customized recommendations that will help you run your bar more efficiently.

To find out how our liquor inventory system can benefit your bar, please contact Bar-i today to schedule your free consultation. We provide services to bars nationwide from our offices in Denver, Colorado.