Paris, France -- May
2006, 18
Pernod Ricard S.A. and FKP Soyuzplodoimport, a federal state company
representing the Russian Federation, announced today that they have entered
into discussions aimed at finding a common agreement regarding the future
development of a number of selected Russian spirits brands, including the
Stolichnaya vodka brand.These
discussions are planned to result in establishing a strategic partnership
encompassing the production and distribution of some of these brands, and
particularly of Stolichnaya. The discussions also could resolve the disputes,
now pending in several countries, concerning the Stolichnaya brand.
The discussions are ongoing and, while no assurances can be provided that an
agreement can be reached, it is the firm intention of both companies to
finalize these talks in a swift manner.
To assist in the discussions, FKP
Soyuzplodoimport has retained Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein as financial
advisor and Pernod Ricard S.A. has retained Morgan Stanley.
In connection with these discussions, the
parties have signed a confidentiality agreement. No further announcement
will be forthcoming until the conclusion of the negotiations.
About Pernod Ricard S.A.:
Pernod Ricard is a leading group in the Wine and Spirits global
market. Following the acquisition of Allied Domecq, the Group has become the
N°2 operator in the world for this sector. The Pernod Ricard portfolio
comprises 15 key brands: Ricard, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Kahlúa, Malibu,
Beefeater, Havana Club, Stolichnaya, Jameson, Martell, The Glenlivet,
Jacob’s Creek, Montana, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët.
Pernod Ricard's strategy is based on a decentralised organisation made up of
Brands Owner subsidiaries which define the overall development strategy for
their brands and Distribution subsidiaries which adapt these strategies to
local markets requirements.
About FKP Soyuzplodoimport:
FKP Soyuzplodoimport is a Russian Federal State Enterprise
which was established on 29 December 2001 by Decree of the Government of
Russian Federation. It focuses on the organisation of production and
distribution of food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage brands, which are
owned by the Russian Federation, both in Russia and internationally.
Specifically regarding alcoholic beverages, FKP Soyuzplodoimport has a
portfolio of 17 trademarks of traditional Russian vodkas and liquors owned
in Russia. The main brands are Stolichnaya, Moskovskaya, Pertsovka, Russkaya
and Zubrovka.
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