Opening a bar or café

A bar is the business most people dream of opening and one of those that closes most. You can make money, but it takes a big investment, long hours and control of every euro.

How much it costs

• Setting up a bar from scratch: figures of €80,000 to €150,000 are quoted, including building work, permits, machinery and furniture. The building work alone can cost around €1,000–1,200 per m².
• Taking over a bar that already works: roughly €10,000 to €40,000. Much cheaper, but check carefully why they are leaving.
• Basic machinery (coffee machine, fridges, dishwasher, griddle, extraction): easily over €10,000.

Where each €100 you sell goes (if it goes well)

What you need to know

• Most small bars and restaurants in Catalonia open with a prior notification; bigger ones with a large capacity need a licence. You will almost always need a technician.
• Health: food-handling training for anyone working with food, a hygiene plan (HACCP) and health registration depending on the activity.
• Terrace: a separate permit from the town hall and a fee.
• Music: if you play music, copyright fees are paid.
• Long hours, weekends and bank holidays. If you are counting on family to work, make it clear from the start.