In a major development in the Indian alcoholic beverages sector, French Spirit maker, Pernod Ricard, has agreed to sell its popular Imperial Blue Whiskey Brand to India’s Tilaknagar Industries. The announcement was made on Wednesday by Pernod Ricard and marks a strategic portfolio shift for the company as it focuses more on premium brands in its portfolio in India and worldwide. The deal is worth $486 million with a $28 deferred payment, which is payable four years after the deal’s completion.
The move comes as Pernod Ricard seeks to sharpen its focus on its premium brands like Chivas Regal, Absolut, Royal Stag, Blenders Pride, and Jameson, in one of its most important global markets. According to the company, this divestment aligns with its strategy to “sharpen focus on more profitable and faster growing brands” in India.
For Tilaknagar Industries, the acquisition represents a bold step toward diversification. Known predominantly for its strong presence in the brandy segment through Mansion House, the company is now aiming to establish a foothold in the whisky segment, which is not only growing faster but also more profitably.
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The deal is expected to close in the coming months, subject to regulatory approvals, including clearance from the Competition Commission of India (CCI). Once completed, it is expected to significantly strengthen Tilaknagar’s product portfolio and market share in India’s competitive liquor landscape.
