Wimpy reveals first Bari-Star

Wimpy in conjunction with Ciro Beverage Solutions, launched a search for the best barista among its staff in the Wimpy/Ciro Bari-STAR challenge. The Barista Challenge, South Africa’s largest franchise barista competition, tested the skills of the competitors, all current baristas working within the 500 stores nationally. Each restaurant in the 24 participating regions nominated one barista to compete regionally culminating in the final, which was held during the annual Wimpy conference late last month.

According to Russ Sidelsky, Ciro marketing manager, the Bari-STAR challenge was structured similarly to international barista skill standards. The regional finalists were instructed to prepare two Premium Blend espressos and two Premium Blend cappuccinos in 10 minutes. The technical judge and two sensory judges from Ciro looked at aspects of preparation, taste, visual appearance as well as total impression.

The six divisional finalists battled it out during the final to reveal the ultimate Wimpy Bari-STAR with Connie Molose from the Mafikeng Crossing in the North West walking away with the title. Geraldine Johnson from the Swartland store in the Western Cape took second place and Portia Mdlalose from Umhlanga Rocks in KwaZulu-Natal came in at third position.