50 team members from Qatar Duty Free recently achieved course certification.

The Duty Free World Council (DFWC) Academy has started 2026 with strong momentum, reporting that nearly 15,000 students have completed its responsible training courses – including 3,091 enrolments in 2025 alone.

Founded in 2019 as part of DFWC, the Academy aims to raise industry standards by offering responsible retail online training focused on key selling skills. Courses include a scholarship programme and certified options in key categories, delivered via ACI World Training’s Online Learning Centre.

Since the Academy relaunched its courses in 2022, nearly 15,000 students from various levels have participated, including Advisory Board members who provide feedback by completing courses.

Course offerings have expanded in recent years, with updated content. For example, a new category, covering Responsible Retailing of Tobacco and Smoke-free Alternatives, was introduced in 2025.

Support from industry figures and forums has grown, the DFWC noted. Leading retailers including Avolta, 3Sixty Duty Free, Dubai Duty Free, Qatar Duty Free, and Harding+ have enrolled staff. Qatar Duty Free recently completed training for over 50 team members, all of whom earned certification.

DFWC President Sarah Branquinho commented: “I’m delighted with the Academy’s ongoing progress in new course development and improvement, as well as the renewed focus on quality training. It’s good to see retailers, brands and agencies prioritising industry-leading team training.”

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