miami gardens – Last year over 240,000 people attended the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Miami Gardens and the excitement continues as we enter our second year.
The event wowed not only the audience, but also local small business owners, who were looking forward to another big boost in profits.
Minority small business owners from Miami Gardens hosted their second-year gathering at Hard Rock Stadium on Thursday to help them better prepare for upcoming events.
Business owners including Shawn Flowers and Danielle Perry and Reggae Beets were in attendance.
They told CBS4 that their business has grown more than expected.
Perry, co-owner of Reggae Beets, said: “It’s fantastic. It’s fantastic to be able to put our business out there and show them that we can be part of Formula 1. I know it’s international, We’re also international and Jamaican. So, it’s really nice to combine.”
“The money that came in was a blessing. It helped us with upgrades and a smoother operation,” said Flowers, who is also a co-owner.
Last year, the event provided a $350 million boost to the economy.
At the summit, business owners learned about layout changes they can expect.
Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix chairman Tyler Epp said the Miami Gardens business is their top priority.
“We’re really focused on the people in Miami Gardens and the community. They’re the first people we go to, the first people we talk to. We have a whole community outreach team here ready to answer the call Be ready to have a conversation,” Epp said.
Changes will of course be made to ensure a smoother journey next year, Epp added.
“We’ve learned a lot. It’s a business and a building full of people who are used to full-on large events. This time is different. It’s unique. We had some challenges, but we largely We are very proud of our team for overcoming these challenges.”
Other small businesses, such as Drinks on Me 305, say there are many lessons learned from the first year.
Owner Chaz Fenderson says that will change next year, but overall sales are good.
“The winner of the race is probably jumping, and so is my team. We’re like oh my god, we did it! It’s the biggest event we’ve done so far in the five years I’ve been in the business, so I don’t really know what’s going to happen. What’s going on, but super excited. Take a deep breath and walk in and just hope the crowd will love what we have to offer,” Fenderson said.
The Formula 1 president added that if you want to get involved and have your small business present please contact them and their suggested deadline is February 1.
Formula 1 Miami returns to Hard Rock Stadium from May 4th to May 7th.
Nicole Lauren
