Pernod Ricard has announced the sale of its international strategic wine brands to Australian Wine Holdco, a consortium of international institutional investors and owner of Accolade Wines.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
The sale includes well-established wine brands produced by Pernod Ricard Winemakers, such as Jacob’s Creek, Orlando and St Hugo from Australia, Stoneleigh, Brancott Estate and Church Road from New Zealand, and Campo Viejo, Ysios, Tarsus and Azpilicueta from Spain. These brands collectively account for over 10 million 9-litre cases annually and operate across seven wineries, encompassing vineyard-to-bottle production.
Through this transaction, Pernod Ricard will transfer its wine division to a globally scaled player dedicated exclusively to the wine industry. This strategic move is expected to provide Pernod Ricard’s wine brands with the focused attention needed to maximise their potential, strengthen their market position and capitalise on new global opportunities.
The deal is expected to be completed in the second half of 2025, pending customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
by Rafaela Sousa
Source: foodbev.com
Andrew Archambault, US president at The Hershey Co., is leaving the chocolate and snack maker next month after just over a year at the company. Plans call for Archambault to depart on May 1, Hershey said April 14 in an 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company said in the filing that it has launched a search for his replacement.
Barry Callebaut resets its strategy with a “Focus for Growth” plan, as it looks to stabilize operations after a volatile period in the cocoa market. H1 2025/26 shows lower sales volumes, but improved cash flow, gross profit, and reduced net debt. Cocoa price swings, overcapacity, and supply disruptions continue to pressure profitability despite regional growth pockets.
North Africa’s F&B market is evolving with a focus on healthier and affordable products, driving innovations in sugar reduction and functional beverages. Döhler, IFF, Ingredion, and Lallemand showcased solutions tailored to local demands, at Djazagro 2026 this week. The region faces challenges like food security, affordability pressures, and logistical issues, driving the need for local adaptation.