Robert DeMars didn’t necessarily intend to revolutionize the tailgating and homegating industry. He just wanted people to have fun.
An inventor, DeMars had designed numerous outdoor and lifestyle products, including a grill which became the nation’s No. 1 barbecue line. But, he had another goal – to create an entertainment center that people could afford … convenient for the patio, backyard, game-room or man-cave. He wanted it to be portable, ready for everyday use … and fun.
That goal was accomplished. The Best of Times Bar & Entertainment System was the product, a professional quality, fully customizable party display.
But, when his son enrolled at USC and they started attending football games there, DeMars recognized a unique application for the new product – tailgating.
“I was able to take the prototype product to a San Diego Chargers game,” recalled Best of Times president Alex Dinsmoor, a business partner. “I was amazed at everyone’s reaction and saw first-hand how people were drawn to the bar. People came over to check it out constantly. I made some new friends that day.”
Already a lot of people around the country are finding out about the Bar & Entertainment System. There are licenses to produce products with the logos for all 32 National Football League teams, along with over 50 colleges and nine top NASCAR racing teams.
The product is not exclusively for tailgating and homegating. They have been sold for use as trade show booths, product sampling kiosks, and mobile marketing displays. They are used in basements, on back porches, and on family vacations to the beach or the lake. But still, you keep coming back to sports.
“Sports fans are enthusiastic, vocal and proud of their teams,” said Dinsmoor. “All year long, no matter what the sport is or where a sporting event is held, the fans are there every step of the way.
“We’re thrilled to provide a product that allows die-hard fans to celebrate their teams and show their pride anytime, anywhere. We truly believe that our product is the most versatile piece of indoor/outdoor furniture that anyone can buy.”
Product components include a six-foot square umbrella, L-shaped bar unit, in-shelf cooler, wheeled travel case for convenient transportation, four padded bar stools with custom seat covers, and a side table/barbecue stand. The product is sturdy with a steel frame, durable countertops, food-grade cooler and ample storage.
So what if there’s a mixed marriage … you know one person is an Alabama fan, the other pulls for Auburn? Or maybe it’s Texas and Texas A&M. Or Trojans mixed in with Bruins?
Not a problem.
The same furniture can be made to work for almost any fan favorite, changed out for any game. It can also be customized for corporate branding or to support local teams and social organizations.
“The main unique selling property is that people can change the way the unit looks through our patented interchangeable print sets,” Dinsmoor said. “Someone can switch out the umbrella, bar wrap, stool covers and side table wrap in just a matter of minutes with no tools.
“The fact that we have been able to secure so many licenses in the short life of the product is a testament to how much people like it. It’s an amazing tool to help people enjoy themselves and interact with friends and family. “
Best of Times staff has been pleased with interest and enthusiasm for the products.
“Word of mouth sales are growing fast, as our units attract attention wherever they are set up,” Dinsmoor said. “Our long-term and short-term goals are to help people have fun, especially in these tougher economic times. If you always wanted a built-in bar or entertaining area, but could not afford the high price, then this is your product.
“At Best of Times, we feel like our company name says it all.”
Best of Times products are available at retail stores, and on e-commerce sites like www.nflshop.com, as well as at www.bestoftimesusa.com, (800) 400-4227 or (949) 661-6494. There is a 30-day free trial offer, as well as a program where existing customers can earn $50 for every unit sold through their referral.