~by Dixie Somers~
Owning a restaurant can be a profitable business, but certain measures should be taken to guarantee its success. Nearly 60% of restaurants fail during their first year after opening. To avoid becoming one of these statistics, check out the following tips to learn how you can succeed in this exciting business.
Choose a good location
Choosing the right location for your restaurant is one of the most important decisions you will make for your business. Restaurant owners should avoid locations in poorly populated areas. It might be a good idea to choose a location near other businesses. Restaurants near retail centers often attract hungry customers. Office buildings are full of workers looking for a good place to eat lunch. It’s common to see several restaurants in a general area, but it’s important that your restaurant stand out from all the others.
Decide on a cuisine 
Deciding on a cuisine for your restaurant can affect the success of your business in a major way. It’s important to consider the demographics of your location when choosing a cuisine. Restaurant owners should choose a cuisine that is appealing to the community. It might be a good idea to offer a variety of choices to accommodate different food tastes.
Learn Business Skills
Practicing good business skills is a key factor for success in the restaurant industry. Running a restaurant is more than just cooking food in the kitchen. The owner is responsible for everything that happens in the restaurant. Restaurant owners hire and manage employees, choose menu items, resolve customer complaints, and handle financial matters. It would be impossible for one person to do everything all on their own, which is why most restaurant owners hire experienced professionals to help get things done.
Avoid Sanitation Code Violations
The reputation of a restaurant is largely based on the appearance and cleanliness of the establishment. Nobody wants to eat at a dirty restaurant, and a pest problem is the fastest way to shut a restaurant down. An establishment will not pass inspection if bugs or rodents are found on the property. It’s best to have your restaurant inspected by a pest control company before you start selling food to the public. It’s also a good idea to have the property inspected on a routine basis to prevent infestations.
Owning a restaurant is a big responsibility, but the rewards of sharing your recipes with hungry customers and building a name for yourself are invaluable. Follow these tips so that your restaurant can be a lasting establishment in your city.
Meet the Author: Dixie Somers
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves writing for business, finance, and those with an entrepreneurial spirit. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.
Twitter: @DixieSomers
(Dixie got information for this piece from Ace Walco & Sons Termite & Pest Control.)
