Business Wars Bacardi vs Pernod Ricard | The Bat Out of Hell | 3
Jul 21, 2021
Juan Prado, a top salesman at Bacardi and a Cuban exile, dives into the fierce rivalry between Bacardi and Pernod Ricard over the iconic Havana Club rum. He shares insights on how Bacardi navigated political landscapes and leveraged its Cuban roots to protect its legacy. The discussion highlights intricate corporate maneuvering, emotional stakes tied to heritage, and the high-stakes battle that unfolded amid U.S.-Cuba tensions. Prado's unique perspective adds depth to the intricate world of spirits and the fierce battles waged behind the scenes.
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Pernod Ricard Uses Bacardi's Distillery
- In 1993, Bacardi CEO Manuel Jorge Coutillas learned that Pernod Ricard was producing Havana Club rum in Bacardi's former distillery in Cuba.
- This infuriated Coutillas, as he saw it as a betrayal and theft of his family's legacy.
Ricard Considers Compensation
- Pernod Ricard CEO Patrick Ricard considered compensating the Arechabala family, the original owners of Havana Club.
- His executives advised against it, fearing potential legal issues.
Arechabalas Reject Offer
- Pernod Ricard offered the Arechabala family $100,000 for the Havana Club brand, but the family rejected it as too low.
- The Arechabalas argued that Pernod Ricard couldn't produce authentic Havana Club without their secret recipe.
