Top 10 Bar Suppliers: The Essential Guide for Your Bar Business


Whether you’re about to uncork your new bar business or you’re refreshing your established watering hole, it’s absolutely essential to have a reliable set of bar suppliers in your contact list. From state-of-the-art mixology equipment to high-quality consumables, your choice of bar suppliers can make or break your venture.

Just as a craftsperson is only as good as their tools, the success of your bar relies heavily on your selection of bar equipment suppliers. The best bar suppliers will provide you with the edge you need to rise above the competition, aiding you in creating an unforgettable experience for your patrons.

If you’re looking for the best selection of bar and equipment suppliers for your business, keep reading for our must-read list of the top 10 bar suppliers, an essential guide for your business.

Sourced from around the country, these suppliers are leaders in their fields, providing top-quality products and impeccable beverage service. Let’s pour into the details.

The Importance of Quality Bar Equipment and Supplies

bar suppliers

In the bar industry, quality is a vital determinant of both the experience you offer and your bottom line.

Here’s a more detailed look at why quality bar supplies matter:

  • Efficiency and Consistency: High-quality tools like shakers, jiggers, and bar spoons enable bartenders to efficiently and consistently create drinks. Precision tools mean accurate measurements, which translates to consistent taste across drinks. This leads to higher customer satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Durability: Quality bar supplies tend to be more durable, reducing the frequency of replacements. This ultimately saves costs in the long run. Think about items like glassware, bottle openers, and drink mixers, which see heavy use and can quickly wear out if they are of lower quality.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The presentation of drinks is a significant part of the customer experience. High-end glassware, garnish picks, and even straws can elevate the presentation of a cocktail and improve the overall customer experience.
  • Increased Profits: Premium cocktail ingredients allow you to craft higher-end cocktails, which can be sold at a higher price point, leading to increased profits.
  • Professionalism: Having quality equipment shows your commitment to excellence, reflecting well on your establishment and conveying a sense of professionalism.
  • Innovation: Suppliers who produce high-quality products often stay abreast of industry trends and innovative products. By investing in such suppliers, you ensure your bar remains modern and competitive.
  • Food Service: Quality kitchen equipment allows for the production of high-end bar snacks and meals. This adds an extra revenue stream and enhances the overall bar experience for customers.
  • Safety: Quality equipment tends to be safer to use. For example, a well-built, sturdy bar stool is less likely to break and potentially cause injuries.
  • Eco-Friendliness: Many quality bar supplies are also environmentally friendly, made with sustainable materials and designed to be reusable. This can enhance your bar’s reputation among eco-conscious customers.

Investing in quality bar supplies is not just about spending more; it’s about making strategic choices that enhance customer experience, improve operational efficiency, and boost profits in the long run.

How to Choose the Right Bar Supplies Company

Choosing the right bar supplies company is akin to choosing a business partner. This decision should be made with utmost care and consideration, as it can significantly impact your bar’s operation and reputation.

In essence, your ideal bar equipment supplier should be a reliable partner that supports your bar’s operational needs, helps maintain your quality standards and contributes to your bar’s overall success.

When choosing a bar supplies partner, consider the following key factors:

  • Cost: It’s important to find a balance between cost and quality. While staying within budget is crucial, remember that extremely low prices might be indicative of poor quality. Aim for suppliers that offer competitive pricing without compromising on the quality of their products. The amount your pay for supplies can also impact how much you charge for various drinks, so carefully consider how to price liquor and other cocktails when budgeting.
  • Quality: The quality of your supplies can significantly affect your customer’s experience. Ensure your supplier provides high-grade, durable products that align with your brand’s image and and the standards for your cocktail menu.
  • Delivery Time: Reliable delivery is a must. Your supplier should be able to consistently meet your delivery schedules to ensure smooth operations. Delays can disrupt your bar service, disappoint customers and negatively impact your reputation.
  • Customer Service: Excellent customer service is a marker of a good supplier. Look for suppliers that are responsive, helpful and proactive in resolving issues. Their willingness to go the extra mile can be a significant asset in your business.

Our Methodology to Choose the Top Bar Suppliers

In our quest to curate a list of the top bar suppliers, we rigorously evaluate each option based on the following criteria. Our importance scale ranges from 1 to 10, with 10 indicating the highest level of importance and 1 the lowest.

  1. Quality of Products
    • Importance Scale: 9/10
    • Rationale: We prioritize suppliers who offer high-quality products, as this directly impacts customer satisfaction and the overall success of a bar.
  2. Variety and Selection
    • Importance Scale: 7/10
    • Rationale: A broad selection allows bars to cater to diverse tastes and preferences, which is a key factor in our evaluation.
  3. Pricing and Value for Money
    • Importance Scale: 8/10
    • Rationale: We consider suppliers who provide the best value for money, balancing cost with quality.
  4. Delivery and Logistics
    • Importance Scale: 8/10
    • Rationale: Suppliers with reliable and efficient delivery services score higher, as this is crucial for uninterrupted bar operations.
  5. Customer Service and Support
    • Importance Scale: 7/10
    • Rationale: Excellent customer service is essential for resolving issues swiftly, impacting our ratings significantly.
  6. Sustainability and Ethical Practices
    • Importance Scale: 6/10
    • Rationale: We value suppliers who are committed to sustainable and ethical practices, reflecting a growing industry trend.
  7. Technology and Innovation
    • Importance Scale: 5/10
    • Rationale: Suppliers who showcase innovation in their products and services are often ahead in the market, which we consider important.
  8. Reputation and Reviews
    • Importance Scale: 7/10
    • Rationale: A strong reputation and positive reviews are indicative of a supplier’s reliability and quality, influencing our selection.
  9. Flexibility and Customization
    • Importance Scale: 6/10
    • Rationale: Suppliers who offer customizable options allow bars to differentiate themselves, a factor we consider in our evaluation.
  10. Payment Terms and Financing Options
    • Importance Scale: 6/10
    • Rationale: We assess the flexibility of payment terms and financing options, as this can be crucial for businesses managing cash flows.

By applying these criteria, we aim to provide our readers with a comprehensive and reliable list of the best bar suppliers in the industry.

Top 10 Bar Equipment Suppliers

If what you seek are valuable insights to help you choose the right bar equipment suppliers, underlining the importance of forging a successful partnership, take a look as we shift gears into our list of the top 10 bar suppliers.

1. Webstaurant Store

bar suppliers

Webstaurant Store is an online, one-stop-shop for all your bar supply needs. Its broad product range, competitive pricing and quick delivery make the vendor a favorite among many bar owners.

The company is known for its high-quality products, including bar glassware, cocktail mixers and innovative bar tools, that cater to every style of bar from craft cocktail lounges to bustling sports bars.

2. BarProducts.com

bar suppliers

With more than two decades in the business, BarProducts.com offers a diverse range of products at affordable prices. The company specializes in unique and customizable bar tools, making it a go-to for bars seeking to create a distinctive atmosphere, whether you’re opening a neighborhood bar or learning how to start a nightclub.

BarProducts.com’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction lands it firmly on our list.

3. Rapids Wholesale Equipment Co.

bar suppliers

Rapids Wholesale Equipment Co. has been a trusted name in the bar supply industry since 1936. Its long-standing reputation is built on providing top-notch equipment and supplies.

The bar supply company’s specialty is large-scale orders, and it’s known for its reliable delivery and professional customer service.

4. RestaurantSupply.com

bar suppliers

RestaurantSupply.com offers an impressive catalog of bar supplies, catering to both small and large-scale establishments.

The company excels in providing a variety of high-grade equipment, from refrigeration to underbar sinks. Its commitment to quality and competitive pricing sets it apart in the market.

5. Barstuff.com

bar suppliers

While Barstuff.com caters to European bar owners, it also ships internationally, including to the United States. This reliable supplier offers a comprehensive range of bar products.

The supplier specializes in high-quality glassware and bar equipment, often bringing the latest European designs and trends to customers.

6. KegWorks

bar suppliers

KegWorks focuses on bar supplies and equipment designed to enhance the beer drinking experience, including a wide variety of kegerators, draft beer equipment, and tap handles. ‘

The supplier’s commitment to improving and diversifying the beer experience makes it a top choice for beer-centric bars.

7. Mission Restaurant Supply

bar suppliers

With its vast inventory, Mission Restaurant Supply caters to an extensive range of bar needs. The vendor offers competitive pricing, and it’s known for its commitment to high-quality customer service.

Mission Restaurant Supply’s range includes everything from bar refrigeration to cocktail prep tools, making it a versatile choice.

8. The Restaurant Store

bar suppliers

The Restaurant Store is praised for its convenient online platform and a vast array of bar supplies.

The company offers high-quality products at competitive prices, and its service is known for reliability, securing its spot on our list.

9. Behind The Bar

bar suppliers

Behind The Bar specializes in professional-grade bar tools, glassware and cocktail ingredients. Its curated selection of unique and premium products can help establish your bar as a top-tier establishment.

10. LionsDeal

bar suppliers

LionsDeal offers a wide range of bar supplies at wholesale prices. It is known for its durable products and excellent customer service. The LionsDeal bar supplier’s selection includes everything from glassware to bar furniture, catering to a wide variety of needs for bar owners.

Comparison of the Top 10 Bar Equipment Suppliers

Bar SupplierDescriptionTop Selling Points
Webstaurant StoreOnline one-stop-shop for all bar supply needsBroad product range, competitive pricing, quick delivery
BarProducts.comOffers diverse range of products, specializing in unique and customizable bar toolsAffordable prices, dedication to quality, customer satisfaction
Rapids Wholesale Equipment Co.Trusted bar supply industry name since 1936Top-notch equipment and supplies, reliable delivery
RestaurantSupply.comOffers an impressive catalog of bar supplies, catering to both small and large-scale establishmentsHigh-grade equipment, commitment to quality
Barstuff.comComprehensive range of bar products with an international reachHigh-quality glassware and bar equipment
KegWorksFocuses on supplies designed to enhance the beer drinking experienceWide variety of beer-related equipment
Mission Restaurant SupplyCaters to an extensive range of bar needs with a vast inventoryCompetitive pricing, high-quality service
The Restaurant StorePraised for its convenient online platform and vast array of bar suppliesHigh-quality products, reliable service
Behind The BarSpecializes in professional-grade bar tools, glassware, and cocktail ingredientsUnique and premium product selection
LionsDealOffers a wide range of bar supplies at wholesale pricesDurable products, excellent customer service

FAQ: Bar Suppliers

How can I ensure I am choosing a reliable bar supplies company?

To ensure you’re choosing a reliable bar supplies company, research its reputation, product quality, pricing and customer service.

Consider reviews from other customers and how long the vendor has been in business. Focus specifically on testimonials from types of bars that are similar to your business. Verify if it consistently delivers orders on time and offers customer support when issues arise. Don’t forget to ask if the company offer warranties or return policies for its products.

What should I look for in a bar supplies company?

Small business bar owners should look for a bar supplies company that offers high-quality products at competitive prices. Ensure it provides a wide range of products, from essential barware to specialized equipment.

Check the supplier’s delivery schedules, return policies and customer service reputation. Companies that have industry experience and positive reviews from other bars typically are the most reliable.

Where can I find the best wholesale bar accessories suppliers for small businesses?

Many online platforms offer bar owners the best wholesale bar accessories at affordable prices, including Webstaurant Store, RestaurantSupply.com and LionsDeal. These suppliers offer a wide range of products at competitive prices, and they cater to the specific needs of small businesses.

You also can attend industry trade shows and join online forums to discover new suppliers ideal for your establishment.

What strategies can I use for effective bar organization?

Effective bar organization can be achieved by optimizing your layout for workflow efficiency. Keep frequently used items within easy reach, and use organizers like condiment caddies for utensils, cocktail ingredients and glassware.

Regularly assess your bar inventory to ensure you have adequate supplies without overstocking. Be sure you implement a consistent cleaning schedule to maintain a clean and attractive environment.

What are some must-have bar tools and bartending supplies for a small bar?

Essential bartending supplies for a small bar include cocktail glasses and a variety of glassware for different types of beverages, straws, bottle openers, cocktail shakers, mixing glasses, strainers, muddlers, bar spoons, bar mats, ice buckets, and a reliable ice machine.

You’ll also need pourers, a high-quality blender for mixed drinks, a cutting board and knife for garnishes and cleaning supplies to maintain a sanitary environment.


More in:

Samantha Lile Samantha Lile is a staff writer for Small Business Trends and has been a member of the team for 3 years. She is also a freelance writer and journalist who contributes to a variety of web publications from her home office in the heart of the Ozarks.