#Japan #Tokyo #DEAN & DELUCA #Food Education #LIG Ambassadors

LIG DEAN & DELUCA Ambassadors Program Enrollment Opens

DEAN & DELUCA, operated by Welcome Co., Ltd. and headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, is set to launch the sixth intake of its LIG DEAN & DELUCA Ambassadors Program beginning August 1, 2025. This online community is designed to foster new connections and learning experiences around food, under the theme Learning Is a Gift.

Since its inception in September 2022, this program has grown to become a platform for engagement with producers and offers in-depth culinary experiences beyond what physical stores can provide. More than 200 participants have already enriched their lives through learning and discovery in the program's first five sessions, aiming to enhance daily dining experiences.

Upon completing the Basic Program, participants can dive deeper into diverse culinary themes through Basic II, which focuses on subjects like French pastries and salt & spices. For those seeking even more profound knowledge, an Advanced Class offering direct learning opportunities from culinary professionals such as chefs, sommeliers, and buyers will also be available.

Moreover, the activities of the LIG community extend beyond online learning, collaborating with various organizations to provide food seminars as part of employee welfare initiatives or resident courses for housing communities operated by real estate companies. The program prides itself on creating educational experiences that bridge the online and offline worlds.

The Basic LIG DEAN & DELUCA Ambassadors Program spans six months, allowing participants to learn about various food genres from chefs, baristas, and buyers, covering themes like cheese, wine, and coffee. Classes are mainly conducted through Zoom, integrating practical experiences with tasting ingredients delivered in conjunction with the workshops. Additionally, a community space for networking with other participants and receiving insights from artisans and chefs will be provided regularly.

Three Key Features of the Program

1. Comprehensive Learning: The program covers not only technical knowledge about production methods and sourcing but also selection tips and delicious ways to enjoy food. It aims to provide a new perspective for deeply enjoying culinary experiences.

2. Supportive Resources and Perks: Participants will receive exclusive materials for all courses, tasting products, and priority purchasing options for rare related items, enhancing their learning journey.

3. Networking Opportunities: Beyond just lectures, the program fosters a platform for participant interaction through member blogs and events, enabling connections among fellow food enthusiasts. Furthermore, upon joining, participants can contribute as LIG Ambassadors, sharing food experiences through social media, blogs, and videos.

Launch of Basic II

With the commencement of the sixth enrollment for the Ambassadors Program, Basic II will also be introduced. Following completion of the six-month Basic Program, ongoing enrollment will begin in February 2026. This new initiative provides a total of six sessions delivered bi-monthly over one year, focusing on themes such as French pastries, jam & spreads, Japanese seasonings, salt & spices, pasta, and charcuterie. Each session will feature experts, allowing participants to explore the depths of food through its ingredients, methods, and cultural contexts.

Enrollment Overview

• - Application Period: August 1, 2025 – August 31, 2025
• - Activities: Participation in six online classes led by DEAN & DELUCA's chefs and buyers, access to exclusive member events, and a community platform for information exchange among participants.
• - Program Duration: September 2025 – February 2026
• - Membership Fee: ¥44,000 (excl. tax ¥40,000), which includes participation in monthly online classes and access to archived videos, as well as educational materials and tasting products.
• - Application Process: For detailed application information, please visit the website here.

About DEAN & DELUCA

Founded in 1977 by Joel Dean and Giorgio DeLuca in SoHo, New York, DEAN & DELUCA is a gourmet food retail company renowned for curating a selection of the world's best culinary products. In Japan, there are 19 market stores, 27 cafes, and 1 wine specialty store, along with an online store. The brand is dedicated to creating exceptional culinary experiences and continues to offer new food adventures to customers.