Triumph Higher Education Group Acquires Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, Expands Culinary Education Network into Canada

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., and VANCOUVER, British Columbia — April 2, 2026 — Triumph Higher Education Group today announced it acquired PICA Holdings Incorporated, the parent company of the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts (PICA), a Vancouver-based institution for professional culinary and pastry arts education, effective April 1.

The acquisition brings PICA into Triumph’s culinary education portfolio alongside Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts (Escoffier), the largest culinary school brand in the United States,* expanding its network of accredited, career-focused culinary institutions across North America. Financial terms were not disclosed.

In addition to its business-focused curriculum that includes entrepreneurship and wellness programs, Triumph said the acquisition aligns with its strategy to further expand professional education programs in high-demand sectors including hospitality and culinary arts to address employers’ skilled labor shortages. Both PICA and Escoffier blend traditional methods with modern innovation representing a foundation that has shaped current culinary arts across North America and globally.

“We are pleased to welcome the students, faculty and partners of PICA to the Triumph family. PICA’s approach to culinary education, rooted in excellence, tradition and innovation, aligns with our strategy to expand career-focused programs in hospitality and culinary fields, where demand for skilled professionals continues to grow.”

“Our missions share a commitment to cultivating passion and lifelong careers in the culinary and hospitality professions. Bringing PICA into the Triumph family allows us to expand opportunities for students while strengthening the culinary talent pipeline across North America and internationally.”

PICA will continue operating from its Vancouver campus, with no disruption expected for current students or programs. Former owners Yves and Sylvia Potvin will continue in an active advisory role following the acquisition. The institution will maintain its hands-on instructional model and local industry relationships, operating within Triumph’s culinary division alongside Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.

Students at both institutions will have access to expanded academic resources, broader employer partnerships, international experiences and cross-border career pathways. The combined programs will support the education and development of future culinary and hospitality leaders.

“Joining Triumph marks an important step forward for PICA. We are proud of our role in Vancouver’s culinary community and look forward to expanding opportunities for our students, alumni and instructors while continuing to serve Western Canada and our international student population.”

Together, Triumph’s network will serve approximately 8,000 students annually, with an alumni network of more than 25,000 and over 125 faculty and chef instructors across North America. For more information about the acquisition, contact Patti Thomas at patti.thomas@escoffier.edu.

*Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts is the largest culinary school brand in the U.S. (based on comparable student population data currently reported in IPEDS).