By: Emeleze Victor Onos
After years of establishing itself as a market leader in premium spirits in Nigeria, with a growing presence and influence across the country, Pernod Ricard, the name behind renowned brands such as Martell, Jameson, The Glenlivet, Imperial Blue, and many others, has officially unveiled itself to the Nigerian public.
This landmark event took place during a media parley held recently at Radisson Blu, Ikeja, Lagos.
Founded in 1975 through the merger of two major industry players, Pernod and Ricard, the Pernod Ricard Group is headquartered in Paris, France, and boasts a portfolio of over 240 brands, with operations across Europe, North America, Africa, and over 180 countries. The group has firmly positioned itself as a global leader in premium spirits.
Pernod Ricard Nigeria was established in 2012 and is anchored on four cardinal values: Fiercely Authentic, Grounded in the Real, Connected Beyond Borders, and Passion for Challenge. Since inception, the company has grown into a prominent player in Nigeria’s spirit market.
According to Michael Ehidero, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, the objective of the brand unveiling was to connect the company’s identity with its products, as many Nigerians are familiar with the drinks but not the company behind them.
In his words: “Indeed, no one knows the company. The hope is that this forum will give the audience an opportunity to know who we are.”
“There is hardly any major city in Nigeria where you won’t see an advert for one of our brands.”
“You can imagine attending meetings with government officials and having to explain who you are, or when trying to hire top talent and being seen as an unknown entity , despite our brand visibility. This strategy is to link our company to our products.”
Pernod Ricard Nigeria operates three distribution hubs in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, and employs over 2,000 people directly and indirectly. While most of its brands are imported, Imperial Blue is produced locally in Ota, Ogun State.
Speaking on the uniqueness of their products, Evane Chenuet, Marketing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, emphasized that each brand is specially crafted to suit different occasions, noting that Pernod Ricard is “crèateurs de convivialité” — creators of conviviality.
Some of their brands as Highlighted by Evane Chanuet the marketing director are
Jameson Irish Whiskey
Jameson blends the best of pot still and fine grain whiskeys. It is triple-distilled — not out of necessity but by choice — to achieve its signature smoothness, and aged in oak casks for several years.
Chivas Regal Blended Scotch Whisky
Launched in 1909, Chivas Regal is the world’s first luxury whisky. Known for its quality and timeless style, its founder, James Chivas, championed two blending principles: aged stocks and a distinct Speyside character.
The Glenlivet Single Malt Scotch Whisky
The Glenlivet was the first licensed distillery in its valley and is considered the single malt that started it all. The Founder’s Reserve pays tribute to George Smith’s legacy and remains one of the smoothest expressions of the Glenlivet family.
Ballantine’s Blended Scotch Whisky
Started in 1827 by George Ballantine, this brand features one of the most extensive ranges of blended Scotch. The Finest expression, created in 1910, is blended from over 40 malt and grain whiskies and remains a staple to this day.
Martell Cognac
Founded in 1715 by Jean Martell, Martell is the oldest of the great Cognac houses. Its identity rests on three pillars: elegance, complexity, and balance.
According to Evane Chenuet, “Cognac is a brandy that can only be produced in the city of Cognac, in southwestern France. Martell, with over 300 years of heritage, is a name of significance.”
Inverroche Gin
Crafted in the Cape Floral Kingdom of South Africa, Inverroche blends nature, innovation, and tradition.
Chenuet also noted that the brand supports women empowerment, with a female master distiller, and prides itself on its eco-friendly policies from production to waste disposals.
Beefeater Gin
Beefeater is the only international premium gin still distilled in London. Overseen by Desmond Payne, the world’s most experienced master distiller, it is known for its bold and distinct London Dry style.
Absolut Vodka
In 1879, Lars Olsson Smith introduced continuous distillation, and 100 years later, it was rebranded as Absolut. It is distilled in Åhus, Sweden, using locally grown wheat and is renowned for its purity and taste.
Olmeca Tequila
Made with hand-selected agaves from Los Altos, Olmeca tequilas are slow-roasted in traditional brick ovens, crushed, fermented, and distilled in copper pot stills — a true celebration of heritage and craftsmanship.
Malibu Rum
Known for its coconut flavor, Malibu is made with Caribbean rum distilled on a beach in Barbados. It’s a staple in classic tropical cocktails like piña coladas and daiquiris.
GH Mumm Champagne
The Cordon Rouge is the heartbeat of Maison Mumm. Named after France’s Légion d’Honneur red ribbon, the champagne is crafted from over 100 crus and aged for 20 months.
Perrier-Jouët Champagne
A House inspired by nature and art, Perrier-Jouët is known for creating exquisite champagnes that reflect the richness of the Champagne terroir. Its legacy stems from its founders’ passion for botany and craftsmanship.
