Bringing chocolate expertise to the growing Middle East region
Barry Callebaut opens CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center Dubai at the foot of Burj Khalifa
The Barry Callebaut Group, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, inaugurated today its relocated CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center Dubai, which is now at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
This new location and facility will be the creative platform for chefs and artisans to showcase and develop their talent and skills. As CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center Dubai is part of the wider CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center network with 24 academies across the globe, it will be the best platform to bring renowned chefs to Dubai to inspire, train and advise local artisans.
Commenting on the launch event, Chef Romain Renard – Head of Chocolate Academy Centre Dubai said, “With our new set up we aim to elevate the experience of all chocolate professionals in the region who wish to create and express themselves. It is a unique place where we are cultivating an atmosphere of curiosity, creativity and inspiration for both professionals and chocolate lovers.”
With a team of dedicated chefs, CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center Dubai plays its role to inspire and educate the industry around chocolate and bring new techniques to artisans, pastry chefs, confectioners, bakers and caterers. The CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center Dubai also plays an important role to drive innovation as consumption patterns are changing more towards premiumization and new concepts in terms of design, color and flavors. As of October 21, courses and events with physical attendance will start again.
Amine Mebrouki, General Manager Middle East & North Africa, said: “The chocolate market is recovering in the Middle East region. The CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center Dubai supports local businesses in finding the right chocolate solutions to help them win in the market. From empowering women and young talents, to supporting new concepts: The CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center Dubai is the place to be in the Middle East region for everything related to chocolate.”
Rogier van Sligter, President EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa), added: “This is an important moment for Barry Callebaut’s presence in the Middle East region. The relocated CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Center Dubai will strengthen the collaboration with our customers in the growing Middle East region, helping them to develop their own profile in terms of taste and flavor. Initiatives like this help to grow the Gourmet business in the Eastern part of our EMEA Region.”
The center will also serve as a meeting place for chocolate professionals encouraging the exchange of technical expertise among each other.
Further stating on his part, Anuj Pachauri Marketing Manager – Barry Callebaut Group stated, “We believe the new location of CHOCOLATE ACADEMYTM Dubai will become the beating chocolate heart for chefs and chocolatiers not only in Dubai but in the whole Middle East. This will bring us closer to our customers, helping them express themselves in best possible way.”
For more information about the Barry Callebaut CHOCOLATE ACADEMY™ centers please visit their official website.
