Pernod Ricard have reported a “very dynamic Q1” with 20% organic growth from a low base the previous year with ‘good growth’ in the UK.
With Q1 total global sales of €2,718 million, the biggest winners were Strategic International Brands with 24% growth and include Martell, Jameson, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal and Absolut, and their Speciality Brands, up 21% and include Malfy, Avion, Del Maguey, Aberlour, Monkey 47, US whiskeys and Lillet.
In the UK, sales were driven by Jameson, Absolut and Havana Club.
Alexandre Ricard, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We have had a very dynamic start to the year, as expected, with strong demand in most markets. The Off-trade remains resilient and I am particularly pleased to note the continued recovery of the On-trade.
We expect good sales growth to continue through FY22, albeit moderating vs. Q1. We will continue to implement our strategy, notably accelerating our digital transformation and reinvesting to seize present and future growth opportunities”,
The company finalised an agreement to purchase The Whisky Exchange at the end of last month.