Bacardi welcomed a group of hospitality students from Florida International University to its Bermuda headquarters last week, giving them a behind-the-scenes look at the global spirits industry from the heart of one of its most iconic brands.

Eighty students and seven faculty members from FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management visited as part of the university’s “Hospitality at Sea” study abroad programme.

The group toured the Bacardi global headquarters building, attended presentations on brand strategy and sustainability and took part in a guided tasting session and lunch at the Bacardi 1862 Cocktail Bar.

“This visit reflects our shared commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation of hospitality leaders,” said Douglas Mello, managing director of Bacardi International. “We’re proud to open our doors to students who are passionate about the industry and eager to learn from real-world examples.”

The visit builds on a longstanding partnership between Bacardi and FIU that began in 2020 with the creation of the Bacardi Centre of Excellence, supported by a $5 million gift.

The programme has since helped develop new beverage management courses, student scholarships and initiatives like Future Proof, a certified bar training programme offered in Bermuda through the Bermuda Tourism Authority.

John Buschman, the professor who led the faculty delegation, called the visit “nothing short of world-class”.

He added: “The immersive engagement and behind-the-scenes access provided our students with a real-world perspective that can only come from passionate leaders dedicated to shaping the future of hospitality.”