Hookah rental is a popular side business in South Africa, and the business idea is suited to individuals who love events, parties, and nightlife culture. Most event planners and socialites rent hookahs for birthdays, weddings, bachelor parties, and lounge experiences.
If you are thinking about turning this business idea into a lucrative one, here are the complete steps to get started.
Understanding the Hookah Rental Business Model
A hookah rental business is straightforward. Instead of running a hookah lounge, you provide hookah sets and flavoured tobacco to people for a limited time at their events. This can be for private parties, corporate events, festivals, or weddings.
Some entrepreneurs only rent out the equipment, while others offer a full-service package. A full-service package can include delivery setup, staff to prepare the hookah, and cleanup after the event. You can choose which model works best for you.
Research the Legal Side
Make sure you check local laws. In South Africa, for example, hookah tobacco is treated the same way as cigarettes and other smoking products. This means your customers must be over 18 years of age. Some municipalities may require a business license, and you may need to register your business with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) for tax purposes if you are operating formally.
It is also worth checking whether your area requires permits for selling or providing tobacco products. Even though you are running a rental business, tobacco sales and handling can have strict rules.
Start Small with Equipment
The equipment is the heart of the business; you don’t need many hookahs to get started. You can have three to five high-quality sets of equipment for your first clients. When your business grows, you can buy other equipment.
A Basic Kit Should Include:
- A durable hookah pipe
- Washable hoses for hygiene
- Bowls for shisha tobacco
- Charcoal and a burner
- Tongs and disposable mouth tips
If you want to provide a luxury experience, invest also in modern designs, LED-lit hookahs, or larger group-style hookahs
Find Reliable Suppliers
You may need two main suppliers, one for the equipment and the other for shisha tobacco. While you can buy equipment online, it is best to work with a local distributor who can supply you with replacement parts quickly.
For shisha flavours, consider stocking a mix of popular ones like gum and mint, grape, watermelon, and apple. Over time, you can add more exotic blends like cappuccino, bubblegum, or mixed fruit. Consistency in this business is key; however, cheap tobacco burns quickly and leaves customers unhappy, so you will need to buy high-quality shisha tobacco.
Decide on Pricing
Pricing should be above your overall costs, the value you are offering, and your market. Many hookah rental businesses use a three-tier system:
Basic rental: Equipment only
Premium rental: Includes shisha flavours, charcoal, and delivery
Full service: includes staff on-site to set up and manage the hookahs
Always think about the logistics, the number of flavours provided, and your time. A refundable deposit is also a smart thing to implement in case of any damage to the equipment.
Market Your Business
The hookah rental business relies on the power of word-of-mouth and social media marketing. Start creating your presence on Instagram and TikTok and capture short videos of your setups at parties to attract the attention of your potential customers.
Partnerships are also another effective strategy. Collaborate with event promoters and even nightclubs that may need hookahs for their events. To look professional, consider having a simple website or WhatsApp catalogue where people can view your service packages and make bookings
Manage Hygiene and Safety
Hookahs are shared amongst groups of people; hygiene should be a priority. Use disposable mouth tips for each guest, deep clean hoses and bowls after every rental, and store equipment properly to prevent odours and mould.
Charcoal handling also requires care. If you hire staff, train them to set up safely and manage the smoking area responsibly. This will protect your business reputation and ensure repeat business.
Focus on Customer Experience
In this business, customers are paying for more than just equipment; they are buying an experience. Delivering on time, keeping your equipment spotless, and providing a professional service will set you apart from competitors.
The hookah rental business does not demand a huge investment; however, it demands proper planning and consistency. By ensuring your business is legal, hygiene is being practised, and providing excellent service to your customers, you will create an experience that will always be sought after repeatedly.
