#Spain #Barcelona #Culinary Institute #Triumph Education

Triumph Higher Education Group Expands Culinary Network

Triumph Higher Education Group, prominently based in Schaumburg, Illinois, made a significant move in the culinary education sector by acquiring the Culinary Institute of Barcelona (CIB), a renowned institution known for its innovative approach to culinary arts education. This acquisition, effective from July 17, 2026, marks a pivotal addition to Triumph's growing portfolio, which already includes notable entities such as the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts.

The integration of CIB into Triumph’s network bolsters its global outreach, aiming to cater to over 8,000 students annually. With a community of more than 25,000 alumni and a diverse teaching staff comprising over 150 culinary instructors across North America and Europe, Triumph is poised to further enhance its educational offerings. CIB will continue its operations from its campus in Barcelona, ensuring that current students experience no disruption and that the institute’s unique teaching methodologies remain intact. The educational integrity and relationships CIB has built within the culinary industry will be preserved, allowing it to operate within Triumph's culinary division seamlessly.

According to Triumph's leadership, this acquisition aligns with their strategic goals of expanding high-demand vocational training programs, particularly in culinary arts and hospitality sectors. By weaving the innovative educational frameworks of CIB into its established curriculum, Triumph aims to elevate its offerings, thereby creating more comprehensive opportunities for students looking to thrive in the culinary world.

“With the Culinary Institute of Barcelona on board, we are immensely excited about the opportunities presented to our students,” observed Jack Larson, President and CEO of Triumph Higher Education Group. “CIB’s commitment to creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in culinary education resonates with our mission at Triumph, culminating in a partnership that embodies mutual growth and exploration in the culinary domain.”

Founded in 2017, CIB has already celebrated the graduation of over 1,300 students from more than 100 nationalities. The institute's robust programs range from professional diplomas to specialized courses in areas such as advanced culinary techniques, baking, healthy cooking, kitchen management, and restaurant operations. Its distinct educational model emphasizes creativity and problem-solving, fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship among its students. Many alumni have gone on to establish their own culinary ventures, further solidifying CIB’s impact on the culinary landscape.

CIB’s main campus, nestled in the vibrant heart of Barcelona, maintains partnerships with over 200 leading restaurants globally. It has been recognized as a top institution in culinary training, receiving nominations for Best Culinary Training Institution in Europe at the World Culinary Awards for both 2025 and 2026.

Josep Gala Micó, co-founder and president of CIB, shared his enthusiasm about the acquisition: “Joining Triumph allows us to elevate our mission on a global scale. We are eager to maintain our identity while expanding the horizons for our students and alumni through access to bigger networks, resources, and professional pathways that transcend borders.”

As both the culinary and gastronomic tourism sectors in Spain continue to flourish, the demand for skilled culinary professionals is higher than ever—setting the stage for culinary students of the merged institutions. The collaboration between Triumph and CIB will undoubtedly prepare a new generation of culinary leaders equipped to tackle the evolving challenges within the hospitality and culinary fields.

As part of its strategy, Triumph aims not only to broaden study-abroad opportunities in Spain but also to expand online learning offerings. Students will gain increased exposure to global industry experts and instructors, enhancing their educational experience further.

With the world of culinary education rapidly innovating, Triumph Higher Education Group's acquisition of CIB may just be the game-changing move that sets a new standard in culinary training, fostering creativity and professional prowess among aspiring chefs worldwide.