Pernod Ricard Blames Iran Conflict for Projected Sales Slump (3)

Pernod Ricard SA expects disruption from the war in the Middle East to contribute to a slump in annual sales of as much as 4% as it continues to struggle with weak demand in the US and China.

The French spirits maker, which is in talks with US rival Brown-Forman Corp.on a possible merger, cited volatility and uncertainty for the negative projection published Thursday.

It was the first time it has provided such specific guidance for the year ending in June, having previously said it expected sales to improve in the second half.

Pernod made no mention in its ...