Pernod Ricard cleared to acquire Allied Domecq

Media Release

Issued 13 July 2004-05/003

Pernod Ricard cleared to acquire Allied Domecq

The Commerce Commission has cleared Pernod Ricard S.A. to acquire the entire share capital of Allied Domecq plc. The clearance is subject to the divestment of the Lindauer, Aquila, Italiano, Chardon and Chasseur brands currently owned by Allied.

Commission Chair Paula Rebstock said that the Commission was satisfied that the proposed acquisition would not have, or would not be likely to have, the effect of substantially lessening competition in the New Zealand markets for:

* the importation or production of still white wine for distribution;

* the importation or production of still red wine for distribution;

* the importation or production of sparkling wine for distribution;

* the distribution of wine;

* the importation or production of gin for distribution.

Pernod Ricard is a publicly listed French company that produces and distributes wine and spirits. In New Zealand, Pernod Ricard's primary wine brands are Jacob's Creek and Wyndham Estate and its spirits brands include Ricard, Pernod, Chivas Regal Scotch whisky, Jameson Irish whiskey and Seagrams gin.

Allied Domecq is a publicly listed English company that also produces and distributes wine and spirits. In New Zealand, Allied Domecq's primary wine brands are Montana and Corbans and its spirits brands include Teachers Scotch whisky, Beefeater gin and Seagers gin.

A public version of the written decision will shortly be available on the Commission's website, www.comcom.govt.nz under Public Registers.

ENDS

© Scoop Media