Pernod Ricard USA Upgrades its BarSmarts Program to Help Educate and Support the Next Generation of Bartenders

The evolved platform provides a more inclusive resource for current and future bartenders to fuel their passion, hone their skills and take their careers to the next level

NEW YORK, Aug. 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pernod Ricard USA, the largest subsidiary of the world's second largest spirits and wine company, just launched a new and improved version of its premier online bartender education program, BarSmarts, as part of the company's ongoing commitment to support the bartending community and push the hospitality industry forward.

With two levels, Basics and Professional, the BarSmarts program is designed to educate everyone from trained mixology professionals looking to level up their skills to new bar enthusiasts who are passionate about the art of cocktail making. It also helps connect all participants with prospective employers, expanding opportunities for the next generation.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for bartenders is projected to grow 32 percent over the next eight years (from 2020 to 2030) — a rate that's much faster than average, making these skills even more covetable as the industry continues to rebuild from the pandemic.

"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," says Kevin Denton-Rex, Head of Mixology and Education, Pernod Ricard USA. "The initial response to our new program has been very positive, and we're excited about the number of people who are choosing BarSmarts as a tool to begin or expand their bartending career."

Desktop- and mobile-friendly, BarSmarts provides an opportunity for anyone, anywhere to grow their skills in the comfort of their own homes and on their own schedules, for a flat $29 registration fee. The program also features the following updates:

• A robust job board, connecting prospective employers with qualified candidates
• Diverse, best-in-class mixologists contributing to the platform including Chanta Hunter, Haley Traub, Misty Kalkofen, Jane Danger and Jack Schramm
• Exclusive access to thought leadership content through a strategic partnership with the Welcome Conference, an annual hospitality event founded by acclaimed restaurateur, Will Guidara
• A newly launched Spanish-language version of the program, expanding access and support for Hispanic and Latinx communities

"All too often, bar education programs neglect to include the foundational materials necessary to build a strong, competent bar team," said Misty Kalkofen, Director of Education for Another Round, Another Rally, a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding hospitality workers. "BarSmarts 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."

To learn more about BarSmarts and how it can help you and/or your team (you must be 21+), visit www.barsmarts.com.

About Pernod Ricard USA 
Pernod Ricard  USA  is the premium spirits and wine company in the U.S., and the largest subsidiary of  Paris,  France-based Pernod Ricard SA., the world's second largest spirits and wine company. Pernod Ricard employs approximately 19,000 people worldwide, is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI) and is part of the CAC 40 index. The company's leading spirits include such prestigious brands as Absolut Vodka, Avión Tequila, Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky, The Glenlivet Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Kahlúa Liqueur, Malibu, Martell Cognac, Olmeca Altos Tequila, Beefeater Gin, Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal, Monkey 47 Gin, Plymouth Gin, Seagram's Extra Dry Gin, Malfy Gin, Hiram Walker Liqueurs, Midleton Irish Whiskey, Powers Irish Whiskey, Redbreast Irish Whiskey, Aberlour Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Lillet, Jefferson's Bourbon, Smooth Ambler Whiskey, Rabbit Hole Whiskey, Pernod and Ricard; such superior wines as Jacob's Creek, Kenwood Vineyards, Campo Viejo and Brancott Estate; and such exquisite champagnes and sparkling wines as Perrier-Jouët Champagne, G.H. Mumm Champagne and Mumm Napa sparkling wines.

Pernod Ricard USA  is headquartered in  New York, New York, and has more than 1,000 employees across the country. As "creators of conviviality," we are committed to sustainable and responsible business practices in service of our customers, consumers, employees and the planet. Pernod Ricard USA urges all adults to consume its products responsibly and has an active program to promote responsible drinking. For more information, visit: https://www.pernod-ricard-usa.com.

Contact:
Jalana Torres 
[email protected]

SOURCE Pernod Ricard USA