Responsible Consumption: Pernod Ricard Supports the Merger of ICAP and GAPG

Paris, October 17, 2014 /3BL Media/ -- Pernod Ricard is happy to support the merger of industry bodies ICAP and GAPG into one association to promote responsible consumption.

The newly created organization, International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD), brings together members of the beer, wine and spirits industries. This merger will enable our entire industry to better coordinate its efforts and means to fiercely promote responsible drinking. Supporting research and implementing education programs are some of IARD‘s focuses.

This organization will also make sure that a balanced debate on harmful consumption of alcohol is established internationally and will be the single contact for all our of industry’s stakeholders. IARD can already count Pernod Ricard as one of its members, one that intends to actively participate to its work, as the Group already did with ICAP and GAPG.

“I am glad to see that our industry bodies are taking our commitments further with this new organization. Promoting the responsible consumption of our brands is at the heart of our Group’s development strategy. Since 2012, 91% of our affiliates implemented at least one initiative in that regard.” said Pierre Pringuet, CEO of Pernod Ricard.

Ann Keeling will take the position of CEO of IARD on January 1, 2015. Her extensive experience in social development and her ability to work with national and international agencies as well as NGOs will be a great asset for IARD.

About IARD

The International Center for Alcohol Policies (ICAP) and the Global Alcohol Producers Group (GAPG) have merged to form the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD). Continuing and expanding ICAP’s work, IARD will support implementation of the Beer, Wine and Spirits Producers’ Commitments to Reduce Harmful Drinking (www.producerscommitments.org), promote understanding of the positive role of alcohol in society, and contribute to an informed debate by providing balanced and evidence-based science.

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits with consolidated sales of € 7,945 million in 2013/14. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin & Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: ABSOLUT Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate (formerly Montana), Campo Viejo and Graffigna wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 80 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics. Pernod Ricard is listed on the NYSE Euronext exchange (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is a member of the CAC 40 index.

Contacts Pernod Ricard

Sylvie Machenaud / Director External Communications                                            +33 (0)1 41 00 42 74

Carina Alfonso Martin / Press Relations Manager                                                    +33 (0)1 41 00 43 42