 |
|
 |
| News | |
Large-scale eventing in South Africa Issued by Barcode 19 Aug 2009With 2010 less than a year away (and more and more articles beginning with that phrase), a mix of trepidation and cynicism seems to pervade general thinking; already a simmering anxiety is beginning to take hold as the clock ticks down. The question of whether we, South Africans, will be able to pull off the biggest events coup in Africa's history feeds conversations here and abroad. But for some people, like those at Barcode, the debates about what will or won't happen 10 months from now are quietened if attention is shifted to the present and the dearth of local experience in large-scale eventing.   The logistical requirements of large-scale events challenge the mind's sense of perspective. Sheer numbers of guests alone make high-level service delivery demanding, but in mobile bar operations geographical spread, staff management and stock control become critical issues too. For example, during the recent British Lions tour of South Africa, Barcode - exclusive bar services supplier to the games - was tasked with the responsibility of managing 40 or more indoor suites per game while simultaneously running outdoor marquees attending to close on 5000 people. These included the large restaurant marquees at each test stadium, with Loftus boasting South Africa's largest legal wooden deck stage where Barcode serviced 3800 patrons before and after the game. This type of experience is one of the most significant factors setting quality large-scale events suppliers apart from the rest. Since its inception in 2002, Barcode has married the visual effect of creative bar displays with continuously updated procedures and professional service. Smaller functions generally allow for more intimate attention and focus on individual details, whereas large-scale events require a shift in focus. Consistency becomes imperative: the ability to replicate the look and function of bar systems to create visual and practical uniformity across multiple environments in one arena. Being able to make that shift successfully and reliably can be largely attributed to inventive design (Barcode has a variety of bar systems modelled on a unique collapsible design) and astute management, assets that have served the company well in major productions like the A1 Grand Prix, Vodacom Durban July and the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival. Such experience has evolved into a new type of service - one that delivers the exclusivity of boutique private and corporate functions on a mass scale. It is an approach that has set Barcode apart in the context of big sport entertainment and stadium hospitality, making it the logical choice of bar services consultant and supplier to recent contests like the IPL, SA vs Australia ODIs, SBK Superbikes, Super 14 and Tri-Nations. Having only really grown in the last fifteen years, large-scale eventing in South Africa is relatively new - one of the main concerns of pessimists expecting an embarrassing performance in 2010. The truth, however, is that a few organisations in this country have the experience and expertise to ensure effective presentations on the world stage. When it comes to professional mobile bar services, this means stock systems, management skills, infrastructure resources and personal attention to detail that are crucial to operating high-volume hospitality. With this in mind, Barcode believes it has a part to play in helping event organisers put on the best show the country has to offer, the kind that ends idealistic dreams of South Africa being a world player and makes them a reality.   |
 |  |