Business Wars Bacardi vs Pernod Ricard | Rum and Revolution | 1
Jul 14, 2021
Discover the dramatic fallout when Bacardi, exiled from Cuba, seeks revenge on Fidel Castro after losing its homeland. Delve into a covert operation aimed at sabotaging Castro’s regime, revealing the intense rivalry with Pernod Ricard, who partners with the Cuban government. Explore the poignant struggles of the Arechabalas as they fight to reclaim their family legacy amidst political upheaval. Witness the fierce legal battles over the iconic Havana Club trademark that pits these two spirits giants against each other.
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Bacardi's Revenge
- In 1962, Bacardi funded a mission to bomb Cuban infrastructure after Castro nationalized their distilleries.
- Cuban exile pilots attempted to bomb Cuba's power grid from a Costa Rican beach but failed due to logistical issues.
Havana Club Seizure
- Castro's forces seized the Arechabala distillery, makers of Havana Club rum, in 1960.
- Ramon Arechabala, a family member, was forced to work under the new regime but eventually fled Cuba with his family and the secret rum formula.
Missed Opportunity
- The Arechabala brothers, exiled in the US, sought Bacardi's help to revive Havana Club after losing its US trademark.
- A missed $25 renewal fee and a miscommunication led to Cuba securing the trademark.
