This is not small setback ah. Pernod Ricard has now lost in Delhi High Court after trying to resume liquor sales in national capital on May 29,2026 . And honestly,for company behind Absolut vodka and Chivas Regal whisky,this is not some minor licensing issue only.
French liquor giant had approached court after Delhi excise authorities denied its application for sales license . But court did not agree with company’s side,and that keeps whole dispute between Pernod Ricard and Delhi authorities very much alive.
Bench led by Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav supported Delhi authorities’ position . Their argument was that ongoing investigations into Pernod Ricard’s dealings made company ineligible for license under city’s excise regulations .
And this is where case becomes more serious. Court said investigations indicated a “criminal background,” and because of that,Pernod Ricard could not get permits needed to operate in Delhi.
Few things standing out clearly here:
- Case is linked to alleged irregularities in liquor policy being looked into by Central agencies .
- Delhi contributes nearly 5% of Pernod Ricard's sales in India .
- Pernod Ricard argued it had not faced any convictions and should not be denied license.
Company has also denied allegations that it colluded with certain Delhi retailers to inflate market share . But despite that denial,court has gone with authorities for now,and that makes situation uncomfortable for brand.
Tbh,Delhi may look like one market,but for alcohol companies it is big deal. India is Pernod Ricard's largest market by volume,and reported sales were around $2.9 billion last year . Capital city sits inside India’s estimated $65 billion alcohol industry,so losing access here can hurt plans badly.
Pernod Ricard has not yet issued statement on court decision . But with legal battle still going on and license issue stuck,this whole thing now feels like long fight between business ambitions and regulatory pressure…
And question is,how long can company keep pushing in Delhi if courts and authorities continue taking same stand…
