One of the most beloved styles, traditional Irish pubs are all about warmth and community. These pubs often feature dark wooden interiors, intricate handcrafted joinery, and inviting snugs—small private spaces ideal for intimate gatherings.

When opening a pub in Norway, the first thing to realise is that you’re operating in one of the most expensive countries in the world. Alcohol taxation is significant here; for example, beer with more than 4.7% alcohol content faces high excise duties, and spirits are even more heavily taxed. According to the Norwegian Tax Administration, taxes on alcohol can exceed NOK 90 per litre (source). This means that your base costs for drinks are already higher than in most countries.

When we worked with clients on projects like Sunny James Irish Pub and Morrison’s Pub, it became clear that understanding the local market was key to setting prices. In Norway, consumers are accustomed to paying premium prices but expect exceptional quality and an inviting atmosphere in return.

Figuring out the right drink prices for your pub involves more than just covering costs. You need to factor in overheads, desired profit margins, and what your customers are willing to pay. Start by calculating the Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), which includes the cost of the drink itself, taxes, transportation, and storage. Then, determine your profit margin.

A good rule of thumb in Norway is to aim for a 200–300% mark-up on drinks, depending on your location and target clientele. For example, if a pint of beer costs NOK 30 to produce (including taxes), pricing it at NOK 90 ensures you’re covering costs and making a profit.

Norwegians are discerning drinkers. While they’ll pay a premium, they expect quality, sustainability, and a sense of value. Highlighting locally sourced ingredients, premium spirits, or craft beers on your menu can help justify higher prices.

When designing Fadó Pub Oslo, we worked with the client to create an ambiance that matched the high-end pricing. By investing in authentic Irish craftsmanship and integrating local touches, we ensured customers felt they were paying for a unique and worthwhile experience.

In Norway, seasonality plays a huge role in consumer behaviour. During the festive season, customers are willing to spend more, so offering limited-edition drinks at a premium price can increase your profits. On the other hand, running happy hour specials or discounted drinks during quieter periods can draw in more patrons.

At The Temple Hill Bar, we’ve seen how carefully planned seasonal promotions can boost revenue. A winter menu featuring warming cocktails or mulled wine is always a hit, especially when paired with a cosy, welcoming atmosphere.

At Morrison’s Pub in Rome, we helped the owners develop a pricing strategy that catered to both tourists and locals. By researching the local market and calculating costs, we ensured the menu offered something for everyone while maintaining profitability. For instance, premium cocktails were priced higher, while classic pints were more affordable to encourage repeat visits. This balanced approach can easily be applied to pubs in Norway, where catering to both locals and tourists is key.

Modern technology can make setting drink prices much easier. Investing in a reliable point-of-sale (POS) system allows you to adjust pricing dynamically and track sales trends. For example, if you notice a particular craft beer sells out faster than expected, you might increase its price slightly while introducing a new option to balance demand.

Setting drink prices in Norway is a balancing act. By understanding local taxes, calculating your costs, and tailoring your prices to your audience, you can create a pricing strategy that’s both profitable and appealing. Projects like The Irish Pub Company’s Sunny James Irish Pub show how combining thoughtful design with effective pricing can make a pub a true community hub.

With the right planning, your pub in Norway can thrive, offering customers a great experience while ensuring your bottom line stays strong. Skål to that!