13 Feb 2025 Pernod Ricard fully acquires premium SA gin brand, Inverroche

This makes it the group’s first wholly owned African spirits brand…..

Pernod Ricard reports that it as bought the remaining shares of South African boutique gin distiller Inverroche for an undisclosed sum.

The French spirits group initially acquired a majority stake in Inverroche in 2019.

Sola Oke, MD of Pernod Ricard Africa, highlighted the strategic importance of the move, stating, “Africa is a market with great potential for Pernod Ricard.

“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+ Spirits & Champagne segment.

“This is an important milestone in realising our ambition to make Inverroche Africa’s first global luxury spirit brand.”

The brand’s founder, Lorna Scott, is expected to remain involved, bringing her expertise and passion for Inverroche into the Pernod Ricard fold.

Based in Stilbaai, where she pioneered the use of indigenous fynbos in gin production more than a decade ago, Scott has helped grow Inverroche into an internationally recognised brand, now available in 25 markets, including the US.

Beyond its commercial success, Inverroche has played a key role in job creation and community development. It is one of the largest employers in the Stilbaai and Riversdale regions, with women making up 70% of its workforce, many of them single mothers.

During the busy December period, the company creates an additional 30 temporary jobs to accommodate visitors at the Inverroche Brand Home, Africa’s first global brand home.

The business also prioritises local procurement, supporting nearby suppliers and entrepreneurs.

Source: MoneyWeb, Global Data