Barry Callebaut, Zurich, will open a Chocolate Academy in Chicago as part of its strategy for building its business in North America and strengthening its relationships with chocolatiers and chefs in the United States.

The Chocolate Academy, which is the only one of its kind with worldwide locations, offers a diverse range of seminars, demonstrations, theoretical courses and practical workshops designed to inspire artisans and culinary professionals, including pastry chefs, confectioners, bakers and caterers.

The 8,500-sq.-ft. training center in Chicago, which will be Barry Callebaut's 10th Chocolate Academy location, will showcase the knowledge that has been accumulated by the company and will encourage the exchange of technical expertise in the handling of chocolate between professionals, according to the company release.

The academy will offer introductory courses on the origins of chocolate and specialized classes on moulding, enrobing and sculpting techniques. Courses are designed to encourage participants to apply and broaden their technical skills under the guidance of trained master chocolatiers. In addition, the small classes are taught in a personal setting that encourages participants to share their unique experience and knowledge about the latest chocolate-making trends with other participants, the company adds.