UAE. Drinks marketing, sales and distribution company Maritime & Mercantile International (MMI) is celebrating the launch of its suite of wine and bar training facilities named The Academies at its Dubai headquarters.
Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, The Academies is designed to raise the standards of hospitality through education and practical training. MMI noted that the learning centre is set to become “a cornerstone of the hospitality industry in Dubai”.
The Academies hosts regionally focused wine events and offers certifications via the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET). It also conducts Sommelier mentoring sessions and the first ever Court of Master Sommeliers exam in the Middle East.
MMI underlined its role as the leading provider of the prestigious WSET qualification throughout the UAE over the past decade.
Amid the increasing demand for high-quality service and knowledgeable staff in the industry, MMI has expanded its training programmes to include global airlines and retail personnel, alongside its internal teams.
The team of Sommeliers teaching the courses includes MMI Wine Academy Manager Stephen Towler, a Certified Educator and level 4 Diploma holder with WSET and an Advanced Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers; and Wine Trainer Melina Aguirre Jaen, a Wine Educator at WSET and level 4 Diploma holder.
MMI & Emirates Leisure Retail Group CEO Tyrone Reid said: “The Academies represents a strategic enhancement of our commitment to the hospitality sector. We are dedicated to investing in the community and offering top-tier training facilities to support and nurture local and regional talent.”
The inauguration takes place in a period of rapid growth and transformation in the hospitality industry.
The Academies will offer an extensive range of courses and workshops, which were structured to respond to the needs of the hospitality industry. It will also offer masterclasses to industry members to equip them with a deeper understanding and appreciation of beverage service.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Miguel A. Torres, the President of leading Spanish wine producer Familia Torres, ranked the number one World’s Most Admired Wine Brand 2024 by Drinks International.
Torres was honoured by TIME magazine for his pioneering efforts in climate action. MMI said his participation in the launch of The Academies underscores its global relevance and forward-thinking approach.
MMI noted that The Academies is an essential part of its ongoing effort to support and elevate the hospitality industry.
Through this facility, MMI continues to build on the broadest portfolio in the region of internationally renowned and small family wineries from over 30 countries around the world, reinforcing its role in“ shaping a world-class hospitality experience” across its expansive network. ✈
