Pernod Ricard successfully completes its inaugural sustainability-linked bond issuance for EUR750M

Press Release 01/04/2022

The deal represents Pernod Ricard’s inaugural sustainability-linked bond

Amount (EUR) Maturity Settlement Coupon Yield Re-offer spread
750,000,000 7 April 2029 7 April 2022 1.375% 1.563% 45bps

 

Pernod Ricard, the long-term senior debt of which is rated Baa1 (stable outlook) by Moody’s and BBB+ (stable outlook) by Standard & Poor’s, has yesterday set the terms of its new Euro-denominated bond issuance for an aggregate amount of EUR750 million for 7 years.

The deal represents Pernod Ricard’s inaugural sustainability-linked bond which is linked to two environmental commitments: to reduce the Group’s absolute greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1&2) and to decrease the water consumption per unit at distilleries.  This transaction illustrates Pernod Ricard’s ongoing integration of sustainability actions into its  daily operations  and  financing strategy, in-line with the Group’s Sustainability & Responsibility (S&R) Roadmap.

Favorable market conditions and the very positive reception from investors allowed Pernod Ricard to price the issuance at a coupon of 1.375%.

The publication of a dedicated Sustainability-Linked Framework  highlights the Group’s ambition to become an active player of sustainable finance. This Framework is aligned with ICMA’s 2020 Sustainability-Linked Bond Principles (SLBP) and LMA’s 2021 Sustainability-Linked Loan Principles (SLLP) and received a Second Party Opinion from Sustainalytics.

Hélène de Tissot, EVP Finance, IT and Operations, declared:

We are very proud of this inaugural sustainability-linked bond issuance, further emphasizing Pernod Ricard’s ESG strategy and ambition. The transaction was very well received, demonstrating the markets’ confidence in the Company’s financial strength, strategy and ability to deliver on its ESG targets. This first sustainability-linked bond in the Wine and Spirits sector highlights the strong interest among investors for sustainable finance.
Hélène de Tissot
EVP Finance, IT and Operations

Vanessa Wright, Chief Sustainability Officer concluded:

I am delighted by the success of this issuance, linking the cost of financing to concrete, sustainable targets and our Good Times from a Good Place 2030 strategy. This financial transaction is an amazing opportunity to emphasize that our ESG ambition is at the heart of our strategy.
Vanessa Wright
Chief Sustainability Officer

The Sustainability-Linked Financing Framework and the Second-Party Opinion are available at : https://www.pernod-ricard.com/en/investors/share-debt-information#debt-information-430

The net proceeds of this issuance will be used for general corporate purposes of Pernod Ricard.

Placement was made across qualified investors.

An application will be made for the bonds to be admitted to trading on Euronext Paris.

The Bonds are expected to be rated Baa1 by Moody’s and BBB+ by Standard & Poor’s.

Not for distribution directly or indirectly in Canada or Japan.

The distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons who come into possession of this document are required to inquire about, and comply with, potential local restrictions.

This document does not constitute an offer, or an invitation to apply for, or an offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities either in the United States or in any other jurisdiction. Securities may not be offered, sold or delivered within the United States, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under U.S. Securities Act of 1933) unless they are registered or exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Pernod Ricard does not intend to register the offer detailed in the press release, in whole or in part, in the United States, and nor does it intend to carry out any public offer in the United States.

About pernod ricard

Pernod Ricard is a worldwide leader in the spirits and wine industry, blending traditional craftsmanship, state-of-the-art brand development, and global distribution technologies. Our prestigious portfolio of premium to luxury brands includes Absolut vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur and Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes. Our mission is to ensure the long-term growth of our brands with full respect for people and the environment, while empowering our employees around the world to be ambassadors of our purposeful, inclusive and responsible culture of authentic conviviality. Pernod Ricard’s consolidated sales amounted to € 12,137 million in fiscal year FY23. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN Code:FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 and Eurostoxx 50 indices

Contacts Pernod Ricard

Florence Tresarrieu
Global SVP Investors Relations and Treasury
Tel: +33 (0) 1 70 93 17 03
Charly Montet
Investor Relations Manager
Tel: +33 (0) 1 70 93 17 13
Emmanuel Vouin
Head of External Engagement
Tel: +33 (0) 1 70 93 16 34