The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Champagne producer Masion Pommery & Associés has ended its exclusive partnership discussions with sparkling wine group Henkell International.

On 2 June 2026, the two premium alcohol companies announced that they had entered exclusive discussions regarding a proposed strategic partnership that could have seen Henkell International – a Germany-based subsidiary under the Henkell Freixenet group – become a majority shareholder in Maison Pommery.

The exclusivity period agreed between the two companies expired on 31 July 2026, with both businesses confirming that an agreement was not reached. The companies said they remain open to the possibility of resuming talks in future.

Maison Pommery & Associés confirmed it will now be free to consider potential divestitures of ‘non-strategic’ assets across its portfolio, as well as any other transactions targeting strengthened equity.

Specifically, the family-owned French producer said discussions are underway with several parties regarding the disposal of various assets in the Camargue region. It aims to dispose of non-strategic assets, particularly in Southern Europe, for approximately €100 million.

Maison Pommery has also planned to reduce its inventory by approximately €100 million from 2027 to 2030, corresponding to approximately €25 million per year over four years.

The company is a major player in Champagne, across the entire value chain from vine cultivation to wine production and marketing. It also produces a range of wines from the Provence, Camargue and Douro regions.