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Our History

From our birth in Marseille to a worldwide story of growth, success and transformation

Our roots

We trace our roots all the way back to 1805, when Pernod was born. 1932 saw the creation of Ricard - and the two families joined forces in 1975.

Today, Pernod Ricard is present in over 160 countries. Its global reach is testimony to 50 years of growth, and to its transformation into a responsible and sustainable company fit for the future.

1970s – 1990s

Paul Ricard and Jean Hemard sign a contract at the creation of Pernod Ricard in 1975.

1975

Pernod-Ricard is born

The merger of Pernod and Ricard brings together two French anise-based spirits.

Jameson

1988

Irish Distillers

Acquisition of leading Irish whiskey producer Irish Distillers, owner of Jameson.

1989

Orlando Wydham

Acquisition of Orlando Wyndham, makers of Jacob’s Creek.

brand-havana-club-7-lifestyle-original

1993

Havana Club

Creation of joint venture between Pernod Ricard and the Cuban rum company, Cuba Ron, to market and sell Havana Club.

Absolut

2000s

  • 2001: Acquisition of Seagram including Chivas Regal, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute and Martell.
  • 2005: Pernod Ricard becomes world #2 wine and spirits organisation with the acquisition of Allied Domecq and brands such as Mumm, Perrier-Jouët, Ballantine's, Malibu and Beefeater.
  • 2007: Became the first global wine and spirits group to introduce the pregnancy warning label to all products throughout Europe
  • 2008: Acquisition of Vin & Sprit – owner of Absolut Vodka.

 

2010s

2011

Responsib’All Day

Launch of Responsib’All Day, Pernod Ricard’s annual social engagement volunteer event for the group’s entire workforce.

2016

Golden anniversary

As the Institut Océanographique Paul Ricard celebrates its 50th anniversary, Pernod-Ricard commits to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Meanwhile the company acquires super-premium gin Monkey 47.

2017

US acquisitions

Acquisition of majority stakes in high-end bourbon producer Smooth Ambler and Del Maguey Single Village, the #1 mezcal in the United States.

Environment image

2018

Environmental commitments

Nomination of Pernod Ricard as a member company of Global Compact LEAD. Pernod-Ricard joins the New Plastics Economy, led by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.

Environment

2019

Good Times from a Good Place

Launch of a new 2030 Sustainability & Responsibility roadmap, “Good Times from a Good Place.” Acquisitions of super-premium brands Malfy and Rabbit Hole Whiskey, plus Castle Brands (Jefferson’s) and Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co, owner of the super-premium TX Whiskey.

Annual Report

2020 - present

  • 2020: Significant investment in Ki No Bi Japanese Gin and in Italicus aperitivo.
  • 2021: Introduction of a “no minors” symbol on all bottles marketed by the Group
  • 2022: Acquisition of a majority stake in Château Sainte Marguerite, Côtes de Provence cru classé.
    Launch of digital labels providing consumers with full information on the Group's products.
  • 2023: Acquisition of a majority stake in Codigo 1530 prestige tequila, in Skrewball super-permium flavored whiskey and in Ace Beverage, Canada's leading ready-to-drink alcoholic beverage Group.
    Casa Lumbre and Lenny Kravitz join forces to develop Nocheluna Sotol.
    Pernod Ricard launches The Chuan, the first prestige malt whisky produced in China by an international group.
  • 2024: Absolut and The Coca-Cola Company launch the Absolut Vodka & Sprite ready-to-drink cocktail.
    Launch of Beefeater 0.0%, an alcohol-free version of the iconic London dry Gin.
GH Mumm

Every single one of our brands has its own unique story to tell. 

Discover all our brands here

Exterior view of The Island, Pernod Ricard's headquarters in Paris, France.
Our Group
Jameson Distillery Bow St. in Dublin, Ireland
Our Global Presence
Friends celebrate a toast while having a meal seated at a table in a garden.
Our Role in Society