Competition is healthy but....
I knew that when I started in this industry, that I would encounter competition - on personal levels but also in educational programming. I believe competition is healthy and should be expected and we at Prud'homme Beer Certification have constantly adapted to a changing environment. It's true that my goal was always to provide the best beer education.
However, I draw the line at understanding my competition when it comes attached with a conflict of interest. To set the stage, please understand that I approached the largest beverage alcohol purchaser (LCBO) in Canada asking to be allowed to promote my programs to their staff. I was informed that they could not accommodate my request due to impartiality. They could not show favoritism to one supplier and I understood that.
But now.... the Director of Beer for the LCBO has come out publicly and endorsed another program. In addition, this person is also the instructor of the course and these two things just reek of conflict of interest. This is supposed to be a level playing field. And so, I would like to explain the differences between our programs.
Their level 1 program is $495 for a 6 hour program. All of the learning materials are e-documents not hard copies. Prud'homme's Level 1 program is 12 hours of in-class learning for $500 and comes with a variety of support materials (printed copies) at no extra charge.
Their level 2 program is $899 for 17 hours of classroom study accompanied by 11 hours of home study. Again, all documents are electronic. Prud'homme Beer Certification Level 2 is $900 but includes all printed materials and 30 hours of in-class study.
I feel the necessity to advise everyone interested in learning more about beer to truly investigate which program will best satisfy their needs. This not an apples to apples comparison.
This year, Prud'homme Beer Certification celebrates its 15th anniversary of providing the gold standard in beer education. We are proud to have produced over 14,000 Level 1 graduates, over 900 Level 2 grads, 250 Beer Sommeliers and 36 Master Beer Sommeliers.
For those of you looking for an exceptional beer education experience check us out at www.tfkbeer.com
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1moWishing you the best!