The Essential Role of Studying Food & Beverage in Hospitality Education

As the guardians of traditional hospitality education, we at Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) teach our students everything there is to know about the hospitality sector, including Food and Beverage (F&B) service. From first year bachelor students who learn in practical training, to postgraduate students studying the fundamentals of international cuisine, we have found that F&B can be quite divisive among the student body. But, whether you love or hate it, F&B is essential for hospitality management and training, and mastering F&B is how to succeed in the hospitality industry.

F&B: The Backbone of the Hospitality Sector

Encompassing a broad range of establishments such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, and resorts, the hospitality sector is driven by food and beverage services. And while SHMS does offer mixology classes and practical training in the kitchen, this isn't limited to just the preparation and presentation of meals and drinks; it also extends to the quality of service provided by the staff.

One of the primary reasons why it is important to study food & beverage in hospitality school is to gain a comprehensive understanding of this domain. This empowers students to learn industry-specific terminologies, operational practices, and industry standards, all of which are vital in delivering outstanding guest experiences.

Moreover, the success of hospitality businesses often relies on the quality of their food and beverage offerings. A meticulously planned menu, innovative culinary concepts, and accommodating diverse dietary preferences can set an establishment apart from its competitors. As such, studying food and beverage equips students with the skills to design appealing menus and manage food and beverage operations effectively.

Lastly, when we are working in F&B, we are working directly with guests, on the front lines. This is vital early in hospitality education, learning how to interact with people at their best and worst. It is not easy, but being able to succeed in F&B proves that we have the social skills, endurance, and know-how required for a successful hospitality management career.

In summary, food and beverage training in hospitality education is crucial. It allows students to understand the breadth of this domain, equips them to deliver unforgettable guest experiences, and contributes significantly to the overall success of hospitality businesses. 

The Benefits of Studying Food & Beverage

Studying food and beverage in a hospitality school such as SHMS brings a wealth of benefits. It equips students with practical skills and knowledge in food and beverage operations through hands-on training and real-world experiences.

One key advantage is the understanding of the latest industry trends and innovations. The food and beverage sector is continuously evolving, with new techniques, flavors, and concepts regularly emerging. For example, SHMS Leysin trains students to program a hospitality robot able to navigate a busy room and offer food and drink to guests. Staying updated with these trends helps students remain competitive and contribute to the industry's growth.

Additionally, studying food and beverage helps students develop leadership and management skills specific to the food and beverage sector. Effective management is crucial to the success of any food and beverage establishment. Hospitality schools offer comprehensive coursework to hone these skills, enabling students to oversee operations, manage staff, and deliver exceptional customer service.

Career Opportunities in Food & Beverage Management

Even though F&B training is advantageous for all hospitality-related positions, the career opportunities within the F&B industry itself cannot go unsaid.  An education in food and beverage from a hospitality school opens a world of exciting career prospects. The field offers diverse roles, whether your passion is in culinary arts, mixology, or restaurant management.

Food and beverage management jobs include roles like restaurant manager, food and beverage director, banquet manager, or catering manager. Each role presents its unique challenges and rewards, allowing you to develop and specialize in your area of interest.

The food and beverage industry offers abundant job prospects and growth potential. With the hospitality industry's continued expansion, there is a constant demand for skilled professionals who can manage and enhance the dining experience for guests. This explains why it is important to study food & beverage in hospitality school.

Moreover, the compensation and benefits associated with jobs such as director of food and beverage are attractive. Salaries may vary based on factors like experience, location, and the type of establishment. However, managerial positions typically come with competitive salaries, bonuses, and benefits. Many establishments also offer perks such as dining discounts, access to exclusive events, and opportunities for career advancement.

Food and beverage training at a hospitality school equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this dynamic field. It prepares you for a variety of roles, offering vast opportunities for growth and success.

The Learning Experience at SHMS

At SHMS, we understand the importance of studying food and beverage in hospitality education. Our curriculum is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field, setting them up for a successful career in the industry.

On top of the mixology classes and hospitality robot training which were previously mentioned, SHMS offers optional Masterclasses in a variety of subjects where students are able to engage with professionals in the field who are masters of their craft. These classes allow students to meet and learn from the best on how to make chocolate, pair wines with different foods, and more.

A key highlight of our program is the emphasis on hands-on training. We believe that practical experience is essential for understanding the nuances of food and beverage operations. Both of our campuses have fine-dining restaurants for students to practice in, as well as state-of-the-art facilities to provide students with valuable hands-on experience in preparing and presenting various cuisines and beverages. 

We also like to keep education creative and fun – students as a class come up with their own restaurant concepts, with themes ranging from a 1920s cocktail bar to an Alice in Wonderland restaurant. These projects allow students to flex their creativity while applying what they have learned to run an event or restaurant from ideation to delivery, with their schoolmates and teachers serving as the guests for practice.

Alongside classroom learning, we offer industry internships at world-class institutions such as W Verbier and Raffles Hotel in Singapore. These internships provide students real-world learning opportunities which allow students to apply their knowledge in real hospitality settings, enhancing their practical skills and providing valuable networking opportunities.

Food and beverage training in a hospitality school lays a strong foundation for this vital aspect of the industry. It keeps students up to date with the latest trends and best practices, equipping them with the necessary skills to excel in their careers. At SHMS, we are committed to providing a holistic learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical training, preparing our students for success in the dynamic world of hospitality.

Success Stories: Making It Big in the F&B Industry

Many successful professionals in the hospitality and food and beverage industry have benefited from a solid education in hospitality management. Here are a few profiles of alumni who have carved out successful careers:

1. Kaido Ojaperv: After graduating from SHMS, where Kaido admits that F&B was his least favorite part of his studies, he became the F&B Manager at a Radisson Hotel which kickstarted his career. Now, he is the General Manager of Radisson Collection in Tallinn, Estonia.
2. Ida Jonsson: Ida earned her bachelor’s degree with IHTTI, which is now under SHMS. Today, she works as the Operations Manager for Happy M Kitchen, one of Sweden’s most forward-thinking eateries, which promotes the value of clean living and making healthy and sustainable food options accessible to all.
3. Kevin Lee: From Korea to New Zealand, Switzerland to China, SHMS alumnus Kevin started out as an F&B Corporate Management Trainee. From there, he has held positions as Restaurant Supevisor in Singapore for the Ritz-Carlton, to Bar Manager of the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul. He is currently Restaurant Manager for JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa.

These success stories illustrate the rewarding career paths that studying food and beverage in a hospitality school can lead to. The education and practical experience gained in hospitality school provide a robust foundation for graduates to excel in various roles within any industry. Whether you aim to manage a restaurant, be an innovator in the food and beverage industry, or simply become the best hotelier you can be, the opportunities are boundless with a solid foundation in food and beverage studies offered at SHMS.