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8 May, 2024

Premium hotel operator ERDI launches its own academy in heart of Melbourne

By Grant Jones

ERDI, a private collection of premium hotels and hospitality businesses, has announced the launch of ERDI Academy, the next chapter of hospitality education and the legacy of founders Eva and Les Erdi.

Starting in the mid-1980s, ERDI offers hospitality education with a commitment to community enrichment from its base at its Mercure Welcome Melbourne on Little Bourke Street and adjacent to sister-hotel, Pullman Melbourne City Centre.

The academy’s launch comes after recently released data showing exponential growth across Australia’s hotels market, with a projected CAGR of 2.27% from 2024-2028, with expected industry revenue growing from US$6.9 billion (2024) to US$7.56 billion (2028).

ERDI Academy provides students with immersive experiences on a daily basis, given it is a hospitality academy uniquely situated within a working hotel environment.

“We are thrilled to introduce ERDI Academy, a testament to our enduring commitment to excellence and community empowerment,” ERDI CEO and executive director Ricky Jeffs said.

“We aim to redefine hospitality education, nurturing the next generation of industry leaders while giving back to our local community”.

ERDI also has on its board Amalia di Loro AM who has wide experience in the Australian university sector, including MBA Director at La Trobe and MBA Director at RMIT University.

ERDI Academy boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a customised learning experience tailored to each student. Over a million dollars was invested in creating the learning facility from a pre-existing space within one of ERDI’s current working hotels. With a faculty of industry experts with first-hand experience, ERDI Academy ensures that students receive comprehensive training in hospitality management.

“At ERDI Academy, we are dedicated not only to producing highly skilled graduates but also to shaping the future of hospitality,” said Jeffs. “Our vision is to empower individuals to thrive in the dynamic landscape of the hospitality industry, guided by our core values of passion, integrity and excellence”.

ERDI Academy talent mix up a drink at the Mercure.

The flagship program at ERDI Academy is the Diploma of Hospitality Management, a nationally accredited qualification covering essential topics such as customer services strategies, conflict management and operational planning.

To celebrate the launch, ERDI Academy is offering a special introductory rate of $13,000 for the Diploma, a significant reduction from the standard $18,000 fee. The Academy also offers short courses in Food Safety Supervisor Training, Food Handlers Training and Responsible Service of Alcohol training.

Erdi Academy is currently open to domestic students with plans in place to secure CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students) approval within the year.

ERDI offered the Diploma of Hospitality Management to current high performing employees from the four ERDI hotels, an offer which was excitedly taken up by various employees.

“I am so excited to be a part of ERDI Academy,” said Ariane, a current student at the academy who has been working at an ERDI hotel for more than 15 years. “The hands-on approach and personalised attention from experienced instructors have truly enhanced my learning experience. ERDI Academy is providing me with invaluable opportunities for growth and advancement within the hospitality industry”.

Applications for ERDI Academy’s next student intake are now open, with classes scheduled to start on 5 July. Prospective students can apply online or contact ERDI Academy directly for more information.

In addition to its commitment to education, ERDI remains a supporter of charitable initiatives through the ERDI Foundation.

ERDI Academy Talent at the Mercure.

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