Bacardi and Miami Performing Arts Center Unveil Bombay Sapphire Lounge Plans

MIAMI  –  Aug.  12, 2009 – In a move that will pair one of the world’s most recognized brands with one of the nation’s premier performing arts centers, Bacardi  U.S.A.  Inc. and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of  Miami-Dade  County  announced today a license agreement that will bring the  BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin brand, the top-valued and fastest-growing premium gin   in   the   world,   to  downtown  Miami  in  the  form  of  a  BOMBAY SAPPHIRE-branded lounge.

The  BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Lounge at the Adrienne Arsht Center will be located on the ground floor of the Center’s landmark art deco Carnival Arts Tower. The Lounge,  scheduled  for completion in early 2010, is a major component of a three-year,  $300,000  contribution to the Adrienne Arsht Center by Bacardi U.S.A.

Details  of  the  agreement were unveiled  Bacardi U.S.A. President and CEO John  Esposito;  by  Ricky  Arriola,  Chairman of the Performing Arts Trust board  of directors; and M. John Richard, President and CEO of the Adrienne Arsht Center.

Renderings  of  the  new  lounge  reveal a sleek, sophisticated design that whisks  patrons into an environment evoking the iconic BOMBAY SAPPHIRE blue bottle.  Downtown  Miami’s newest hotspot will feature a neon-blue lighting scheme, modern furnishings, a collage of historic Miami photos, and outdoor seating on the Adrienne Arsht Center’s Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza.

“Bacardi  U.S.A.  and  BOMBAY  SAPPHIRE  gin  are  excited to announce this agreement  with  the  Adrienne  Arsht  Center,  an  organization that is so important  to  the  cultural  life and development of downtown Miami,” said John Esposito, President and CEO, Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.  “Since its creation more  than  20 years ago, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE gin has become a symbol of style, sophistication  and  inspiration  – qualities that align well with those of the  Adrienne  Arsht  Center.   We  look forward to creating a luxury venue where visitors can enjoy the best and most innovative cocktails in town.”

The  Adrienne  Arsht  Center will operate the BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Lounge before and  after  performances.  Food  and  beverage  service will be provided by Performing  Arts Catering by Barton G. Menu items will include light dishes and snacks, as well as specialty cocktails from the Lounge’s signature bar.