Durban had seldom before seen anything of the profile and magnitude of an A1 GP - with over 100 000 international and local fans attending the R96.1 million event, the eyes of the motor racing world were firmly fixed on the east coast city. And "South Africa's Monaco" did not disappoint. Behind the scenes and behind the bars, Barcode pulled together with top local organisers to stage the impressive two days that would later be voted the best A1 Grand Prix of the 2006 series.
With ten hospitality marquees spread out across the 3.2 km street race circuit on Durban's "Golden Mile", Baytree Caterers and Royal Sechaba aimed to impress. It's an attitude that Barcode understands and appreciates, and a strong, effective partnership was the result. Sixty metres of elegant front bar counter and 24 metres of striking back bar displays adorned the various hospitality tents, providing the perfect platform for Durban's fifty best-looking, most highly equipped bartenders to work from. Each bar was fully equipped with standard necessities such as ice wells, speed rails and fridges, while back bar displays included light boxes emblazoned with corporate branding.
As the A1 extreme machines screamed by, almost 3000 special guests beat the summer heat with refreshing Barcode service. They were entertained in marquees hosted by the likes of the Mvelaphanda, ABSA, SABC, A1 GP, Vodacom, and Team A1 South Africa. With unique cocktails and tailor-made cocktail menus designed for each VIP venue, Tokyo Sexwale and other guests knew that the drinks they were sipping were as exclusive as the Grand Prix itself.
The 2006 A1 Grand Prix in Durban was an overwhelmingly successful event, and Barcode mobile bar industry was proud of the role it had to play in that success. By paying the same attention to detail and professional service that is the standard in smaller functions, Barcode satisfied the massive planning requirements of such a prestigious event, while still allowing its staff the time and freedom to express the positive attitude they are known for. It was an important day for Barcode, for Durban, and for South Africa. As A1 Team South Africa chairperson Tokyo Sexwale said,
"A1 Grand Prix is more than just a sport. It unites nations and encourages patriotism. We therefore see this as an opportunity to generate great excitement, passion and pride among South Africans."
With this approach, the Barcode team is now looking forward to February 2007, when it will once again be the exclusive bar service supplier to the A1 Grand Prix in Durban. Let the race begin!