How should I price a 3-hour corporate cocktail service event when the client has already purchased the stock themselves?

When pricing a corporate cocktail service where the client has already bought the spirits, you're essentially charging for labour, equipment, and setup rather than product margin. Members suggest two approaches:

**Cost-plus pricing:** Add up all direct costs (staff wages at standard bar rates, glassware, ice, setup and breakdown) and apply a 50% markup for profit.

**Per-head value pricing:** Charge £20 per head for the first hour, then £10 per head for each additional hour. This typically yields £300–£500 for a 3-hour event depending on guest count. Members noted this approach captures the experiential value without relying on product margin.

**Key considerations:** - Factor in glassware, ice, bar setup, and your own labour at proper bar rates—these are your actual costs since the client owns the stock - If the client is a high-net-worth corporate (e.g. major finance firms), members suggested pricing at the premium end or above - Members acknowledged this is "difficult" compared to events where you supply and margin the stock, so value-based pricing helps offset the lost product margin

One member recommended speaking to **Nick Bar Nation** for detailed guidance on structuring the quote.