Shipping containers can be used for more than just transporting goods. They have proven themselves to have many uses, for example as compact homes, temporary classrooms, and reception areas for construction sites. Another avenue for shipping containers is the recent trend of small pop-up businesses, including restaurants, cafés and bars.

Shipping containers are ideal for small businesses like bars because of their convenience and ease of customisation. Not to mention the recent changes to the hospitality industry following in the wake of COVID-19, which has meant that people need to think outside of the box when it comes to their business so they can continue to operate while complying with restrictions and within safety guidelines.

Here are some of the reasons why pop-up bars in shipping containers could be the future.

Cost-Effective

Starting your own bar can be an expensive initial investment, and with so much financial turmoil at the moment in the wake of the pandemic, it’s not unusual that you might be anxious about costs.

A pop-up bar is a less expensive investment, as a shipping container will be significantly cheaper than renting or buying a physical location. You can save even further on costs with the option of purchasing a used container.

A bar in a shipping container will be limited on space, so you will need fewer employees to operate it, saving on wages. Pop-ups are popular right now so you could capitalise on partnership opportunities with alcohol brands or an established bar. If you become part of an established bar, you can set up your pop-up around the area to spread the word about the venue, driving in more business.

Mobile

One of the most unique aspects of a shipping container bar is the mobilisation. You can move your pop-up to various locations, giving you the flexibility to attend events, set up in the best places and much more. With a physical location, you are limited to one spot, and it would require a lot of money and time to relocate. A pop-up gives you the flexibility you need to get your business up and running.

A Unique Atmosphere

Pop-up venues create a unique atmosphere that cannot be replicated inside a venue. Shipping containers can be customised inside and out, and your designs will set the tone for your brand. You can also blend it into the surrounding area. By incorporating the likes of a firepit, string lights and comfortable seating, you allow your patrons a unique environment to enjoy your products outside, giving them a more intimate and interactive vibe that people just love.

Work Well with Social Media

One of the reasons pop-ups are so popular is that they are so easily advertised on social media. Launching a pop-up means you can take advantage of the social media craze, encouraging patrons to take photos with the bar to share online and build hype.

Because they are often temporarily set up before being relocated, you can create a sense of urgency in your customers as they will want to visit your bar before it moves to a new location. This type of bar is excellent for social media and easy to create a buzz about online.

Fully Customisable 

Shipping containers can be fully customised, and are easy to paint, decorate and renovate to fit exactly what you need. It will be much more cost-effective than doing up a physical venue, and you have huge scope to set up seating in the surrounding area to create the exact kind of atmosphere you’re looking for.

Quick to Set Up

Setting up a pop-up bar in a shipping container can be done incredibly fast, much quicker than setting up a venue. When you buy a shipping container, you already have the walls, floor and ceiling for your business, you just need to decorate and get all the bar accessories required, and then you’re ready to go! If you want to start your business ASAP, a pop-up bar could be the way to go.

Outdoor Bar Experience

People love outdoor bars at events or just on the go. They are a unique experience that customers love. In light of indoor venues struggling in the wake of COVID-19, an outdoor location could be a great alternative that will offer more flexibility in the wake of restrictions on people being inside.

Many venues struggled with keeping customers at a safe distance from each other due to a lack of space. A pop-up venue allows you to take advantage of outdoor space for seating, or simply offer takeaway bar services. Either way, you can continue to operate your bar even if restrictions continue to be implemented on indoor seating in bars and restaurants.

If you’re interested in a pop up containers, contact Flintham Cabins today. We have a vast range of steel containers in London for sale or hire.