Pernod Ricard S.A. | Introduction
Introduction
12, place des Etats-Unis
75783 Paris cedex 16
France
Telephone: ( + 33) 01 41 00 41 00
Fax: ( + 33) 01 41 00 40 85
Web site: http://www.pernod-ricard.com
Public Company
Incorporated: 1974
Employees: 12,130
Sales: EUR 3.57 billion ($4.87 billion) (2004)
Stock Exchanges: Euronext Paris New York
Ticker Symbol: 120693
NAIC: 312130 Wineries; 312140 Distilleries; 422820 Wine and Distilled Alcoholic Beverage Wholesalers
Pernod Ricard S.A. is a top global producer of wine and spirits. At the time of the company's 30th anniversary in 2004, Pernod Ricard had become the world's third-largest producer of wines and spirits. Eighty percent of revenues come from outside France. In its first three decades, Pernod Ricard skillfully effected its transformation from a France-focused, pastis-based concern to a global leader.
If it were not for the French tradition of gathering for a pre-dinner aperitif, Pernod Ricard might not be the largest alcoholic beverage company in Continental Europe. As it is, the customary French toast "to health" (à santé) has helped to keep Pernod Ricard in excellent condition. The company is the world's largest producer and distributor of anise-flavored alcohol beverages, popularly known as "pastis" in France and that country's single largest selling variety of spirits under the venerable Pernod, Ricard, Pastis 51, and other brand names. The company also produces, markets, and/or distributes other types of anise-flavored spirits, including Italy's Sambucco and Greece's Mini Ouzo, acquired in 1997.
In addition to the company's, and France's, penchant for pastis, Pernod Ricard has built up a strong portfolio of subsidiary brand names spanning virtually every spirits category. Among the company's products are Jameson, Bushmills, and other Irish whiskeys; Clan Campbell and Aberlour Scotch whiskeys, rum, cognac, vodka, and gin; bitters, including the top-selling Suze brand; a range of wine-based and sweet wine aperitifs; wine, including Australia's Jacob's Creek brand; and a variety of light-alcohol beverages. After building up its portfolio with local brands, in 2001 Pernod Ricard acquired a number of international market leaders from Vivendi Universal.