Duty Free World Council announces suspension of the DFWC Academy
With understandable regret the Duty Free World Council announces the suspension of the DFWC Academy in view of the decision by its partner, the Institute of International Retail (IIR), to place the company into voluntary liquidation.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our industry has been dramatic and the resulting collapse in global sales has forced industry stakeholders to cut all discretionary costs, which includes staff training.
Despite strenuous efforts by both the DFWC and IIR to maintain the Academy and promote courses in 2020 – including the implementing of a free “Return to Work” course, slashing of
of registration fees and attempting to raise bursaries, income to the Academy has dried up since the end of July.
The DFWC does not foresee the prospects for student enrolments substantially changing until the industry’s recovery is well under way. It is in discussion with IIR about potential support for any students yet to complete their courses and opportunities to protect the significant body of work enshrined in the courses.
As the year progresses and as the duty free & travel retail industry begins its recovery, the DFWC will review potential future opportunities for the DFWC Academy.
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