This award recognises Cointreau's lasting contributions to the culinary industry and his continuing commitment to the culinary arts as a lifetime career. He helped to create the Science and Food Culture Foundation within the Académie des Sciences, and the Institute des Hautes Etudes du Goût (HEG). In 2008, André Cointreau was awarded the Légion d'Honneur (highest national recognition bestowed by France) for his contributions and accomplishments as head of Le Cordon Bleu school and for the unique educational concept he represents. The success of the London school has meant long waiting lists each year for potential students and, to cope with the demand, Le Cordon Bleu has announced the purchase of No 15 Bloomsbury Square as the site for a new London school which will be open in January 2012.