Maison Pommery & Associés and Henkell Freixenet are entering into exclusive negotiations that could lead to the creation of one of the world's leading sparkling wine players. The French group has announced the opening of negotiations with Henkell International, a subsidiary of Henkell Freixenet, regarding a potential transaction that would see the German group acquire a majority stake in the company.
The parties have agreed to a two-month exclusivity period to further explore the project, described as a "strategic combination" between two family groups with long-standing traditions in the winemaking industry. According to a statement from Maison Pommery, the goal is to create a global player in the sparkling wine market, leveraging a portfolio of complementary brands and an already established international commercial presence.
To monitor the progress of the matter, the French company's board of directors has established an ad hoc committee composed of a majority of independent directors, tasked with monitoring the negotiations in the best interests of the company and its stakeholders. The company has clarified that there is still no certainty regarding the closing of the transaction, which remains subject to due diligence, finalization of contractual agreements, required consultations, and authorizations from the relevant authorities.
A first concrete effect of the negotiations concerns corporate governance: the shareholders' meeting called for June 4, 2026, to approve the 2025 financial statements has been postponed to a date after June 30, pending clarification of the operation's developments.
Meanwhile, Maison Pommery has ensured the full continuity of its business operations, confirming its commitment to supporting its employees, preserving the value of its brands, and maintaining strong relationships with partners and customers.
The potential agreement would allow Henkell Freixenet to further strengthen its position in the premium sparkling wine segment. The German group closed 2025 with net revenues of €1,25 billion, up 0,5% compared to the previous year. Performance was driven primarily by the Prosecco, Crémant, aperitifs, and non-alcoholic products segments, in a market environment characterized as challenging.
Maison Pommery & Associés is one of the historic leaders in Champagne and controls the entire production chain, from vineyard cultivation to wine production and marketing. In addition to Champagne, the group also has a presence in Provence, Camargue, and the Douro Valley in Portugal. The company also places particular emphasis on terroir development, sustainable viticulture, and environmental protection.
From a financial perspective, the French group reported consolidated revenue of €293,2 million in 2025, down 3,6%. However, net profit jumped to €31,9 million thanks to the sale of Heidsieck & Co Monopole to Lanson-BCC, while operating profit increased 83% to €64,1 million. Net financial debt remains high at €754,4 million, although slightly lower than the previous year.
If negotiations are successful, the operation could reshape the balance of the international sparkling wine market, combining Henkell Freixenet's global distribution power with the prestige and tradition of one of Champagne's most renowned houses.
