CEO Alexandre Ricard: Driving Pernod Ricard's Green Strategy

Pernod Richard, under the leadership of CEO Alexandre Ricard, is strengthening its commitment to environmental stewardship, circular economy principles and responsible businesses practices.

The beverage giant, a major producer o  premium champagnes and spirits, unveils an updated version of its sustainability roadmap, Good Times from a Good Place, first established in 2019.

The company, which employs 18,224 people and distributes products across more than 160 countries, manages a portfolio exceeding 200 brands including Absolut vodka, Jameson Irish whiskey, Beefeater gin and Malibu liqueur.

Alexandre says: "Good Times from a Good Place is our strategy to ensure that we operate in a way that minimises our impact on the environment, supports people throughout our value chain and fosters a culture of convivial drinking.

"We are building brands that will last for generations to come, from the soil of our terroirs to the very last sip."

This philosophy could demonstrate the CEO's understanding that long-term brand value depends on sustainable operations that protect both environmental resources and community wellbeing.

Protecting terroir through regenerative practices

Central to Alexandre's sustainability strategy is the protection of terroir, the specific environment where wine and spirits ingredients are cultivated.

Pernod Ricard sets ambitious 2030 targets to reduce agricultural carbon emissions and preserve biodiversity through regenerative agriculture and carbon removal projects across its terroirs.

The company is transforming its agricultural practices by adopting greener fertilisers and renewable energy for machinery.

Between harvests, it implements cover crops such as clover, herbs and grasses to nourish soil, control pests and support biodiversity. This approach could ensure fields remain healthy and resilient for future production cycles.

Pernod Ricard collaborates with environmental experts to protect habitats and create thriving ecosystems, which could lead to healthier terroirs and more resilient harvests.

Discussing the current environment, the CEO says: "Today, the world at large faces a growing number of existential challenges. From the escalating impact of climate change to increasing social and political uncertainty, we remain firm in the belief that operating responsibly and sustainably is fundamental to ensure our business remains resilient in the future."

Reducing carbon through packaging innovation

Circularity represents a fundamental principle in the CEO's sustainability vision. With packaging accounting for 26% of the company's carbon footprint, Alexandre prioritises initiatives to redesign bottles and reduce emissions throughout the supply chain.

The company is light-weighting bottles, switching glass colours and increasing recycled content in packaging to reduce carbon emissions during the design process.

Pernod Ricard's commitment to circular principles extends throughout the product lifecycle, including transitions to plastic-free caps and bottles manufactured from 95% post-consumer glass.

The strategy targets Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions through energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, regenerative agriculture and carbon removal strategies.

In 2024, Pernod Ricard achieved its objective of sourcing 100% renewable electricity across all offices and production sites through green energy procurement and Renewable Energy Certificates.

Manufacturing operations embrace clean energy

Manufacturing operations, which constitute 5% of the carbon footprint, undergo substantial transformation. The Absolut vodka distillery now operates completely fossil fuel free, whilst distilleries across Ireland and Scotland utilise heat recovery technology that could help achieve carbon and water reductions.

Maria Pia De Caro, EVP of Integrated Operations and S&R at Pernod Ricard, says: "Sustainability and responsibility is fully embedded in how we operate, shaping the way we produce and serve our brands while caring for people and the planet.

"From grain to glass, our value chain reflects a deep commitment to doing business the right way by embedding efficiency and innovation."

Alexandre's refreshed sustainability roadmap positions Pernod Ricard to navigate environmental challenges whilst building resilient brands for future generations.