Setting up a bar or restaurant is about more than just food and drink; it’s about creating an experience that keeps customers coming back. One important element in that experience is entertainment, especially for sports bars or establishments where patrons come to catch the latest games or shows. Choosing the right TV provider can enhance your atmosphere, boost customer satisfaction, and even increase revenue. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best one? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the right choice.
1. Understand Your Audience’s Preferences
Before diving into plans and packages, it’s crucial to understand what your customers want to watch. Are you primarily catering to sports fans, news watchers, or a mix of both? Do customers request specific channels, or is there a local team everyone wants to follow? Knowing your audience’s preferences will narrow down which channels and packages you’ll need. Learn about these sorts of packages here.
Pro Tip: Conduct an informal survey or ask regular customers what they’d like to see. This information is invaluable in selecting a package that fits your crowd’s needs.
2. Consider the Type of Programming You Need
Based on your audience’s preferences, you’ll need to decide on the types of programming you want to prioritize. Here are a few common categories to consider:
- Sports Packages: If you’re running a sports bar, prioritize providers that offer comprehensive sports packages with access to local and national games, pay-per-view events, and specialty channels like NFL Sunday Ticket, NBA League Pass, and NHL Center Ice. Find these packages with DIRECTV for business and more services.
- Entertainment and News: If your bar or restaurant has a more casual atmosphere, general entertainment and news might be a better fit. Look for packages that include popular news channels, sitcoms, and entertainment networks.
- Premium Channels: Some bars cater to a high-end clientele who may enjoy premium channels like HBO, Showtime, or STARZ. While this can add to the cost, it may be worth it for certain types of establishments.
3. Evaluate Commercial TV Packages vs. Residential Packages
Commercial TV packages are designed specifically for businesses and typically include licensing that allows public viewing. Using a residential package in a business setting is not only a legal risk but could lead to hefty fines. Ensure you are comparing commercial plans, as they often differ in pricing, channel availability, and viewing permissions.
4. Compare Providers: Cable, Satellite, and Streaming Options
In today’s market, you have multiple options to consider: cable, satellite, and streaming services. Each has its own pros and cons:
- Cable: Cable TV is reliable and offers a wide range of channels, but it can be more expensive and may not have all the specialty sports packages available. It’s also dependent on physical wiring, which might not be ideal if you want flexibility in screen placement.
- Satellite: Satellite providers like DirecTV for business are popular with bars for their sports packages and wide range of channels. Learn more here.
- Streaming Services: Streaming services like Hulu Live, Sling TV, or YouTube TV are increasingly popular, especially for establishments that don’t want to deal with traditional cable or satellite. These options can provide great flexibility and channel variety, often at a lower cost. However, streaming requires a strong and reliable internet connection, so it may not be feasible if your internet is inconsistent.
5. Assess Reliability and Technical Support
Downtime during a critical sports game or an important event can seriously impact customer satisfaction and your revenue. It’s essential to choose a provider known for reliable service and responsive technical support. Look for reviews and ask other business owners about their experiences with different providers. Additionally, many providers offer dedicated support lines for business accounts, which is a big advantage if something goes wrong.
6. Consider the Equipment Needs and Setup Costs
Each provider may require different types of equipment, such as satellite dishes, set-top boxes, or streaming devices. Evaluate the costs associated with each, as well as any installation fees or potential service charges. Some satellite and cable providers offer equipment rentals, while streaming services typically require you to purchase compatible devices like Roku or Apple TV.
Pro Tip: Ask about setup and installation fees upfront to avoid surprises. Some providers may offer free installation as part of a promotional offer for new business customers.
7. Look at Long-Term Costs and Contract Requirements
TV packages can be a significant monthly expense, especially if you’re signing up for premium sports or entertainment channels. Review the pricing carefully, including any promotional rates that might expire after a set period. Some providers also require long-term contracts, which may be challenging if you’re just starting out or prefer flexibility. Avoid hidden fees and price hikes by reading the fine print and understanding the total monthly cost over the life of the contract.
8. Check Licensing Requirements
Displaying TV programs in a business setting often requires proper licensing to comply with copyright laws. Providers that offer commercial packages typically cover this licensing, but it’s essential to verify. Unauthorized use of a residential package could result in fines, so it’s best to choose a commercial package that meets all legal requirements.
9. Explore Multi-Screen Options
If your bar or restaurant has multiple screens, consider providers that offer multi-screen solutions. Some services allow you to stream different channels on multiple screens at once, which is ideal if you want to show a variety of games or events. Be sure to confirm any additional costs associated with multi-screen setups.
10. Ask About Bundled Deals with Internet and Phone
If you’re already paying for business internet and phone service, consider bundling your TV package. Many providers offer discounts for bundled services, which could save you money in the long run. Bundling may also streamline support, as you’ll only have one provider to contact if there’s an issue.
Conclusion: Make a Choice That Enhances Your Atmosphere
Choosing the right TV provider for your bar or restaurant is more than just picking a package; it’s about creating an experience that resonates with your customers. By understanding your audience, comparing providers, and considering long-term costs and reliability, you can select a TV service that keeps patrons entertained and coming back.
Invest the time upfront to make an informed decision, and you’ll find that the right choice pays off with happier customers, a better atmosphere, and potentially increased revenue. Happy viewing!