Pernod Ricard upgrades educational programme
The US subsidiary of Pernod Ricard has launched an upgraded version of its online bartender education programme Bar Smarts.
The upgrade is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to support the bartending community and push the hospitality industry forward.
The Bar Smarts programme is designed to educate and provide an opportunity for those looking to grow their skills in ‘the comfort of their own homes’ and on their own schedules.
The programme offers two levels, Basics and Professional, both of which are designed to educate people of all skill levels, from new bar enthusiasts to trained mixology professionals.
The Bar Smarts platform is desktop- and mobile-friendly, and accessible for a single US$29 registration fee.
The programme updates include a new job board that will connect prospective employers with qualified candidates; a new line-up of contributing mixologists to the platform, including Chanta Hunter, Haley Traub, Misty Kalkofen, Jane Danger and Jack Schramm; and exclusive access to thought leadership content through a strategic partnership with the Welcome Conference, an annual hospitality event founded by acclaimed restaurateur Will Guidara.
The upgrade also features a newly launched Spanish-language version of the program, expanding access and support for Hispanic and Latinx communities
“Bartenders remain an integral part of the on-premise experience, and after the last couple of years, there’s a need to develop talent — and help fill roles — from the ground up,” said Kevin Denton-Rex, head of mixology and education at Pernod Ricard USA.
“The initial response to our new programme has been very positive, and we’re excited about the number of people who are choosing Bar Smarts as a tool to begin or expand their bartending career.”
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for bartenders is projected to grow 32% over the next eight years. With this faster-than-average rate, it is said that the skills taught in the Bar Smarts programme will become even more covetable as the industry continues to rebuild from the pandemic.
Misty Kalkofen, director of education for nonprofit hospitality organisation Another Round, Another Rally said: “All too often, bar education programs neglect to include the foundational materials necessary to build a strong, competent bar team.
“Bar Smarts is a thorough resource that ensures the entire team starts with the same primary knowledge — and has an opportunity to evolve their skills — to provide the best guest experience possible from start to finish.”
We recently spoke to Campari Academy creative director Monica Berg about how education and training can assist the drinks industry with moving forward in the training, recruitment and talent retention sphere.
Related news
Pernod Ricard USA appoints CCO
