Ballymaloe Cookery School Profits Soar After Kate Winslet Enrollment
The renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School experienced a significant financial upswing in 2024, boosted by the enrollment of Hollywood star Kate Winslet. This surge in profits underscores the school’s enduring appeal and the drawing power of its celebrity connections, creating an interesting shift in the culinary world.
Financial Highlights
Financial records indicate that Ballymaloe Cookery School’s post-tax profits increased by 53%, reaching €135,952 this year. This represents a considerable increase compared to the €88,864 recorded in 2023, leading to a rise in accumulated profits to €3.05 million.
Enjoying the Ballymaloe Cookery School. Thank you Darina, Toby and Rachel Allen. What a wonderful place to learn! ❤️
— Kate Winslet (@KateWinslet) October 26, 2024
Total remuneration for the three directors—Darina Allen, Toby Allen and Rory O’Connell—was reported at €329,847. The school also increased its staff from 68 to 73 people, with staff costs rising to €2.6 million. Worldwide, the culinary tourism market is expected to reach $1.8 billion by 2027 (Statista).
School Operations and Offerings
The Ballymaloe Cookery School, situated on a 100-acre organic farm, offers over 60 courses annually. The flagship 12-week certificate program continues to be a key attraction, offered three times a year. The courses for September and January are already fully booked, with participants paying between €16,295 and €16,795.
The school’s accounts also mention the “significant risk to the global economy arising from the current geopolitical situation and the impact on energy costs and inflation,” which could affect future operations.