Pernod Ricard increases supply of alcoholic drinks to Russia in the light of expectations of retaliatory actions from Russian authorities in case the West expands sanctions.

Interfax reports it quoting the interview of Pernod Ricard CEO Pierre Pringuet with Financial Times.

“We import to the breaking point of the possible replenishing the stock in Russia since embargo or retaliatory actions might be declared at any moment”, Pierre Pringuet said.

In particular, Pernod Ricard has increased the supply of Jameson Irish whiskey, Ballantine's Scottish whiskey, Absolut vodka and various wines to Russia.

According to Pringuet, ArArAt Armenian brandy the exclusive rights to which are owned by Pernod Ricard and which makes the one third of the group’s sales in Russia will not be affected if Moscow imposes sanctions against western producers of alcoholic beverages.