Pernod to distribute Stolichnaya worldwide

Emily Pacey

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Pernod Ricard has bought the exclusive global distribution rights to SPI Group's Stolichnaya brand portfolio

Pernod Ricard has secured the exclusive worldwide distribution rights for premium vodka brand Stolichnaya from SPI Group (SPI) for €100m ($122m), including the global distribution rights for travel-retail.

As part of the deal SPI has agreed that Pernod will be offered first refusal to renew the distribution rights when the current agreement expires and first refusal to buy the brand should SPI decide to sell in the future.

The development follows Pernod Ricard's acquisition of Allied Domecq, the previous distributor of SPI's Stolichnaya portfolio. Pernod Ricard acquired the crucial US distribution rights for the Russian vodka in July, but until now it has been unclear who will gain global distribution rights to the brand.

Commenting on the announcement, Pernod Ricard joint director-general Pierre Pringuet said: "The distribution rights of Stolichnaya were a key asset of Allied Domecq that we were keen to secure. Stolichnaya represents a unique opportunity for the group to enter the premium vodka market and build on its strong growth."