Lightweight, easy-to-transport, simple-to-set-up portable bars are indispensable for any rental center serving the party, banquet and special events markets.

Bars are focal points of receptions and cocktail parties. Large banquets require several bar stations.

Although the word "bar" implies the service of alcohol, portable bars often are refreshment stations for soft drinks, iced tea, punch, coffee and other non-alcoholic beverages. A basic portable bar has a countertop on which drinks are prepared and placed for pickup. Surface coatings are easy to clean and resistant to alcohol. Directly under the top is a shelf for bottles, clean glasses, ice containers, mixing tools and a supply of paper napkins.

One-piece models are made of wood, wood products with laminates, plastic and steel. They are mounted on wheels and can be easily moved about. Hotels, convention centers and other meeting facilities usually own several such units, and they are available to rental stores as well.

More practical for rental needs are folding models. They can be carried and quickly set up by one person. Bar heights are 42 inches. Depending on the manufacturer and model, lengths vary from approximately 4 to 7 feet. Units can be placed side by side to enlarge a service area. Durable laminates are available in wood grain looks and colors. When the units are folded for storage, they are only a few inches thick.

Portable bars are needed at formal banquets, informal lunches and dinners held in conjunction with various business and social events, fund-raisers, wedding receptions, anniversaries, bar mitzvahs, and private parties and dinners. Renters of portable bars include corporate meeting and event planners; special event and wedding consultants; sales and event coordinators at hotels, country clubs and special meeting facilities; civic clubs; public institutions and individuals.

Greg Holroyd, King Arthur, Statesville, N.C., advises rental center owners not to ignore hotels and other organizations that own bar equipment. Busy schedules often make it necessary to rent additional equipment, including bars. Hotels and country clubs can be consistent customers to rental centers who prove their dependability and attention to service. Smaller hotels and motels that do not specialize in meetings and banquets are especially good prospects.

When purchasing bar equipment, rental store buyers should look for solid construction and good-quality laminates, advises Chris Mortensen, B & C Mortensen Wood Products, Oldtown, Idaho.

When renting, customers look for portability, ease of setup and functional design.

"Aesthetics are important," Holroyd said. "Laminates provide the opportunity for rental stores to offer bars in a variety of looks and colors. Be creative by offering a variety. This will generate more rental income."

Customers planning large events often overlook bar needs. When contracts are written for tables, chairs, linens, dance floors and all the other standard party items, rental personnel should ask customers how many portable bars will be required.

Store displays also are important and will help promote the product. Printed brochures and flyers can picture bars available in inventory. Mortensen suggests using the rental store bar display to serve coffee, iced tea or soft drinks to customers. They appreciate the consideration, and attention is directed to the bar.

Renters of bars usually are prospects for the full gamut of party and special event rental items. Always query customers about their events to identify other income opportunities.