February 28, 2025
The pool table business in Kenya is a popular and profitable venture, especially in urban and peri-urban areas.
Pool tables provide affordable entertainment, attracting a wide range of customers, from students to working professionals.
With proper planning and strategic placement, a pool table business can generate consistent income with relatively low operating costs.
Four key factors make the pool table business a viable investment in Kenya:
Pool is a widely enjoyed game, particularly in social spots like bars, entertainment venues, and residential neighborhoods.
Starting a pool table business requires moderate capital, especially if you begin with one or two tables.
Players pay per game, creating a steady cash flow. Each game lasts a short time, allowing multiple customers to play daily.
Apart from minor maintenance and rent, running a pool table business involves minimal expenses, maximizing profits.
Before starting, understand the local market to identify your target customers and competitors.
Key research areas when starting a pool business include:
Identify potential customers, such as students, professionals, or residents in your area.
Look for high-traffic areas like pubs, entertainment spots, or densely populated neighborhoods.
Analyze existing pool table businesses nearby, focusing on their pricing, location, and peak hours.
Find an underserved area to avoid excessive competition and maximize earnings.
Decide how you will operate your pool table business.
Common pool business models in Kenya include:
Set up a dedicated space with multiple pool tables and other recreational activities.
Place your pool table in an existing bar or restaurant, sharing revenue with the owner.
Transport your pool table to events or different locations, offering entertainment on demand.
Starting with one or two tables in a shared space is cost-effective and easy to manage.
A business plan helps you outline your objectives and track your progress.
Key sections that should be part of your business plan include
List expenses like pool tables, space rental, and licenses.
Estimate daily and monthly income based on expected customer volume.
Outline strategies for attracting customers and promoting your business.
Ensure your business operates legally by obtaining the necessary permits.
Required licenses and permits for a pool business:
Register your business name on the eCitizen platform for Ksh 950.
Obtain from your county government (Ksh 5,000–15,000 annually).
If partnering with a bar or venue, establish a clear agreement on revenue sharing.
Invest in high-quality pool tables and accessories to attract customers and ensure durability.
Equipment needed when starting a pool enterprise include:
Costs range from Ksh 50,000–100,000 per table.
Typically included with the table purchase.
Bright lights above the table for better gameplay.
For regular upkeep.
Buy from reputable dealers or second-hand markets for affordable and reliable tables.
The location of your pool table significantly affects customer traffic.
Ideal Locations for a Pool Table Business
Ensure the location is well-ventilated, spacious, and has adequate security.
Charge players per game, keeping your rates affordable and competitive.
Example Pricing per game of pool:
Offer discounts during off-peak hours to attract more players.
Effective marketing ensures visibility and attracts customers to your pool table.
Viable marketing strategies for advertising a pool business include:
Use posters or banners in your area to promote the pool spot.
Share videos, photos, and promotions on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Encourage satisfied players to bring friends or recommend your business.
Host small tournaments or offer free games occasionally to attract more players.
Notable challenges for pool businesses in Kenya include:
Many pool tables operate in urban areas.
Solution: Differentiate by offering better customer service or organizing tournaments.
Tables may require frequent repairs due to wear and tear.
Solution: Use high-quality tables and schedule regular maintenance.
Customer numbers may drop during holidays or exam periods in student-dominated areas.
Solution: Introduce promotions or discounts during slow periods.
A breakdown of startup costs for a pool business is shown below:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (Ksh) |
| Pool Table(s) | 50,000–100,000 each |
| Space Rental | 10,000–30,000/month |
| Licenses | 5,000–15,000 annually |
| Lighting and Setup | 5,000–10,000 |
| Metric | Projected Value |
| Games Played per Day | 50–200 |
| Revenue Per Day | Ksh 1,000–5,000 |
| Monthly Revenue | Ksh 30,000–150,000 |
| Profit Margins | 60–80% of realized revenue |
Practises that favour pool business success include:
Maintain your tables and ensure accessories are in excellent condition.
Include additional games like darts or foosball to attract more customers.
Create a friendly atmosphere where customers feel welcome and valued.
Track revenue and customer trends to identify peak periods and adjust pricing or staffing accordingly.
Use social media to advertise promotions or announce tournaments.
Starting a pool table business in Kenya is a profitable venture that offers steady income with low operating costs.
By choosing a strategic location, maintaining high-quality equipment, and marketing effectively, you can build a thriving entertainment business.
While challenges like competition and maintenance costs exist, focusing on customer satisfaction and regular upkeep will ensure long-term success.
Contact us today to start your journey toward a thriving pool table business in Kenya!