Pernod Ricard ‘unequivocally denies’ wrongdoing in India antitrust claim

Pernod Ricard has denied any wrongdoing in a reported antitrust probe launched by the authorities in India.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is alleged to have ordered an investigation into Pernod Ricard on Friday (8 May), according to a report by news agency Reuters, citing a regulatory order. The CCI is investigating supposed “exclusive ‌deals with retailers to promote Pernod’s brands at the expense of rivals”.

When contacted by Global Drinks Intel today, however, a company spokesperson said: “Pernod Ricard India unequivocally denies any wrongdoing. We operate to the highest standards of compliance and governance, and we are confident that our business practices fully adhere to the laws and regulations of the country.

“At this stage, we have not been contacted by the authorities in relation to these matters. Should we be contacted, we will cooperate transparently with the relevant authorities and respond promptly to all their requests.”

Reuters first reported on a CCI probe over potential collusion with Indian retailers in 2024. The agency said Friday’s order referred to “a 2021 internal Pernod email in which executives discussed gaining a ‘strategic advantage’ across New ⁠Delhi zones and providing EUR23m (US$27m) in support to retailers bidding for licences”.

Two years ago, Pernod Ricard announced it was investing EUR200m (then-US$216.6m) over the next decade to build “the largest malt distillery in Asia” in Nagpur, Maharashtra.