Pool table games are among the most popular entertainment
activities in the country due to their affordability. Hence, the pool business
in Kenya has become one of the most lucrative ventures.
You’ll need a minimum of Kshs 30,000 to start a pool
table business. This will earn you an average income of Kshs 1,000 daily per
table.
The affordability and engagement level of pool table games
make it a highly demanded service, especially in small towns. You can leverage
this to earn high returns by finding a suitable location, marketing, and
integrating additional fun services.
So, how can you establish a profitable pool table business?
This piece helps you learn the following essentials:
- The
ABCs of the pool table business
- Factors
to consider when starting a pool table business
- Step-by-step process of opening a pool table business in Kenya
Let’s delve in!
Pool Business: What It Entails
Pool tables are part of the big mansions in affluent
people’s homes. Reason? The cost of a pool table can be overwhelming for a low-
or middle-income earner. This gap yields an opportunity for entrepreneurs to
set up pool businesses in Kenya.
As a businessperson, you can purchase one or more pool tables and set them up in a high foot traffic location to allow your customers to play at a fee. Usually, the pool table service is paid according to specific timelines; for instance, you can have hourly rates.
The government of Kenya has some requirements for you to
start the business. As a result, you should fulfill them before you begin to
operate the premises to enjoy a seamless business journey.
Factors To Consider When Purchasing a Pool Table
Before setting up a pool table business, you should learn
the essentials, such as requirements, to prepare an effective plan covering all
the prerequisites.
Here are some of the factors you should evaluate before you
open a pool table business
The Initial Cost of a Pool Table
How much will you spend to acquire a pool table?
Learning how much money you will use to get a pool table
machine allows you to plan accordingly. And although most first-time
entrepreneurs will compute the pool table price only, they forget to include
the transport and accessories costs.
So when window shopping for a pool table, ensure you check
the
- Table’s
price
- The
accessories price
- The
transport cost as they are bulky
Of course, different pool table sellers will offer a variety
of machines at varying prices.
The Durability of the Machine
When shopping for a pool table, you must evaluate its
durability to avoid high maintenance costs that may decrease your returns.
Generally, you’ll find these two types of machines in the market.
- Slate
Marble Pool Table: This machine usually has a slate marble cover and is
more robust, making it more costly.
- Plywood
and Wood Pool Tables: Plywood or wood-top pool tables are made
from wood, making them less study. Hence, they bear lower prices than
slate marble machines.
The Nature of The Machine
You can choose between a new or second-hand dealer when
purchasing your pool table machine. New table sellers usually present the table
and accessories together, while second-hand dealers sell them separately.
However, the new machines are expensive, making the
second-hand tables a better option if you’re working on a tight budget.
Step-By-Step Guide To Open a Pool Table Business In Kenya
Here are detailed steps to set up a pool table business in
Kenya.
Step 1. Find a Suitable Location
Finding a suitable location for your pool table premise is
among the most fundamental steps toward a successful business.
But how?
When searching for a space to set up your pool table
machine, you should consider the following
- Your
Target Market
Your chosen location should be easily accessible or next to
your target market. You can accomplish this by selecting a spot where your
target audience chills or passes through often.
- Rent
Different locations present unique rates and leasing terms
and conditions. As a result, you should evaluate them to ensure they match your
budget and the nature of a pool table business.
Note that you will incur other recurrent expenditures, such
as utility bills and annual license fees. So you don’t want expensive rent rates
that will lower your profit.
- Population
Density
A highly-populated region attracts a more extensive customer
base to your business, making it more profitable. Hence, you should ensure your
business spot is strategic with massive foot traffic to maximize your returns.
Step 2. Secure Legal Documents
To operate your pool table business smoothly, you must
fulfill all the country’s legal requirements. This will prevent unnecessary
interruptions by the authorities, allowing you to run for maximum hours to increase
your profits.
Which legal documents do you need to operate your pool table
business?
Before you start running your entertainment business, you’ll
need the following documents:
- An
annual license fee of Kshs 5,000 per table
- An
application of Kshs 250 per table
You should renew the license every year.
Step 3. Budget for Your Pool Table Business
Planning for the whole pool table business is essential as
it helps you prepare all the elements to run seamlessly. The two main items you
should focus on at this stage include
- The
Pool Table: Pool table prices range between Kshs 30,000 and Kshs
200,000. The price difference is due to the nature of the machine(new or
used), shipping fee, handling, and delivery charges.
- Supplies
and Accessories: Some of the accessories you should budget for include
cues, tablecloths, cue balls, and chalk. In addition, ongoing operation
will require items such as waxes, polishes, and repair tools for
maintenance.
A clear view of how much it costs to start and run your
business will help you prepare all the necessary items to establish a
profitable venture.
Step 4. Set Up The Business
Once you find a good table machine deal, you can purchase
and transport it to your premises. Then, arrange it with the matching
accessories.
In addition, you should hire an artist to write your
business name on the premises to increase your business visibility. Note that a
good name should resonate with your target audience for better branding and
marketing.
Step 5. Market Your Business
Marketing increases your reach, growing your customer base.
To market effectively, implement the following:
- Utilise
Social Media
Social media has become a goldmine for most business people.
You can advertise your business to people within your region by posting
appealing pool table photos.
- Collaborate
with Local Businesses
Networking with local businesses such as pubs and
restaurants can fetch you a vast pool of clients. Moreover, you can share ideas
and resources or even serve the same customers across your premises.
- Promotions
Promotions are a great marketing tool that attracts more customers. To maximize its outcomes, you should offer discounts, raffles, or special offers in different seasons or during an event.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Much Do I Need To Start A Pool Table Business In Kenya?
The cost of starting a pool table business in Kenya is
between Kshs 20,000 and Kshs 80,000. Here’s a breakdown of an initial capital
of Kshs 55,000
- The
pool table machine – Kshs 40,000
- Rent
– Kshs 10,000
- License
fee – Kshs 5,000
- Application
fee – Kshs 250
2. Is a Pool Table Legal In Kenya?
Yes, the pool table business is legal, with an annual
license rate of Kshs 5,000 and an application fee of Kshs 250 per table.
Conclusions
Finding a good business idea with a small amount of capital is challenging. Fortunately, you can start a pool table business with as little as Kshs 30,000 and enjoy a daily average income of Kshs 1,000 per table.