FDBusiness.com

Global wines and spirits group Pernod Ricard has reorganised its premium wines and vodka businesses. A new brand company called Premium Wine Brands has been created which is responsible for the development and global strategy of the group’s strategic wine brands. The portfolio includes: Australian wines (Jacob’s Creek), New Zealand wines (Montana and Brancott), as well as Spanish and Argentinean wine brands with international potential (Campo Viejo and Graffigna). The new company’s objective is to accelerate the international development of these brands within the Pernod Ricard distribution network.

Jean-Christophe Coutures, who is currently chairman and chide executive of Pernod Ricard Pacific, becomes the chairman and chief executive of Premium Wine Brands. He will report to Thierry Billot, managing director, brands.

Pernod Ricard has also extended the responsibilities of The Absolut Company to include all the group’s international vodka brands, including Absolut, .Friis and Wyborowa. Its objective is to establish the strategy for the entire vodka segment. In addition, The Absolut Company retains the responsibility for the Malibu and Kahlua brands.

Stephane Longuet, currently vice president finance of The Absolut Company, is appointed chief operating officer of the Standard Vodka division of The Absolut Company and therefore will report to Philippe Guettat, chairman and chief executive of The Absolut Company.