Artemis Transaction Advisors Advises Triumph Higher Education Group in Acquisition of Culinary Institute of Barcelona
This acquisition is a continuation of Triumph’s geographic diversification strategy, bringing its leading, online culinary education platform to Spain and expanding learning opportunities for all students using Triumph’s education services.
- Alex Hicks, Managing Director
Led by Artemis Transaction Advisors (ATA) Managing Director Alex Hicks, Triumph Higher Education Group (Triumph) acquired the Culinary Institute of Barcelona (CIB) in July 2026, expanding its global culinary education network. The deal strengthens Triumph’s global network of career-focused culinary education institutions, adding CIB to its portfolio alongside the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts in Vancouver, British Columbia.
The acquisition aligns with Triumph’s strategy to expand professional education in high-demand sectors like culinary arts and hospitality, broadening global opportunities for students. CIB’s business-focused curriculum complements Escoffier’s model, blending professional culinary arts with contemporary business training. The acquisition allows CIB to maintain its unique educational approach while benefiting from Triumph's resources and international connections.
CIB will continue operating from its Barcelona campus with no disruption to students or programs. It will retain its distinctive methodology, faculty, and industry relationships while functioning within Triumph’s culinary division.
Earlier in 2026, Alex Hicks advised Triumph on the acquisition of Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts. This was ATA’s second transaction with Triumph in under a year, underscoring the successful partnership between the two firms.
A Notable Transaction for Our Time
Triumph’s acquisition of CIB reflects a broader thematic shift toward career-focused, skills-based education, particularly in trade and vocational disciplines. The transaction underscores investor appetite for high-quality, niche education platforms with strong employment outcomes and defensible market positioning.
About Artemis Transaction Advisors
Artemis Transaction Advisors is a boutique investment banking firm specializing in mergers and acquisitions, recapitalizations and financial advisory services. The firm provides tailored solutions to middle-market businesses, helping them achieve their strategic goals. Artemis is based in Chicago, with additional offices in Atlanta and Dallas.
