Pernod Ricard acquires full ownership of South African gin brand Inverroche 

SOUTH AFRICA – French spirits giant Pernod Ricard has acquired the remaining shares of South African gin distiller Inverroche, securing full ownership of the premium gin brand.  

The financial details of the transaction remain undisclosed. 

Pernod Ricard initially purchased a majority stake in Inverroche in July 2019 as part of its strategy to expand its presence in Africa’s growing premium spirits market.  

The acquisition underscores the company’s confidence in the region’s potential for premium-plus spirits and Champagne. 

“Our investment in Inverroche demonstrates the continued commitment of our group to Africa and our belief in the continent’s potential as a significant white space opportunity in the world for the premium-plus spirits and Champagne segment,” said Sola Oke, managing director of Pernod Ricard Africa. 

Founded in 2011 by Lorna Scott, Inverroche is based in the Cape Floral region near Cape Town.  

The distillery is known for incorporating indigenous fynbos (fine bush) botanicals in its gin production. The brand has expanded its footprint across 25 international markets, including the United States. 

Inverroche gins are produced at Pernod Ricard’s Stilbaai Distillery in South Africa and have gained global recognition. The distillery plays a key role in the local economy, employing a predominantly female workforce, with women making up 70 percent of its staff. 

Additionally, the company created 30 temporary jobs in December to accommodate an influx of tourists at its visitor center. 

Scott is expected to continue working with the brand following the acquisition, ensuring continuity in its identity and product quality. 

While Pernod Ricard does not disclose specific sales figures for its African operations, the company reported “very strong results” from its combined Africa and Middle East business unit in its 2023/24 financial year, which ended on June 30.  

The group cited strong performances from Chivas and the Nigerian market as key contributors. 

In the first half of the fiscal year, Pernod Ricard reported a 4 percent decline in organic net sales to €6.176 billion, with a 6 percent drop on a reported basis. The downturn was attributed to weak consumer demand, macroeconomic challenges, and declining sales in China. 

As part of its portfolio optimization strategy, Pernod Ricard is reportedly considering the sale of its GH Mumm champagne brand, seeking at least €600 million for the transaction, according to Reuters. 

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