Pommery facing refinancing pressure

Maison Pommery has entered exclusive negotiations with German sparkling wine giant Henkell over a potential strategic partnerships that could reshape the European sparkling wine sector.

The two-month exclusivity period comes as Maison Pommery continues discussions with lenders over refinancing its substantial debt burden. If an agreement is reached, Henkell would become the majority shareholder in the French group, creating a major international sparkling wine business with a broad portfolio of brands and global distribution reach.

The proposed deal would unite two family-controlled companies and strengthen their positions across key sparkling wine categories. For Henkell, the transaction would provide greater exposure to Champagne, while Maison Pommery would gain access to an expanded international sales network and additional financial backing.

The announcement follows a strong improvement in Maison Pommery’s profitability during 2025, with net income rising to €32 million. However, the company’s net financial debt remains high at more than €750 million, highlighting the ongoing importance of refinancing efforts.

Maison Pommery stressed that negotiations are still ongoing and there is no guarantee that a final agreement will be reached. The talks are being closely watched in Champagne, where tight financing conditions are fuelling renewed discussion about consolidation within the wine industry.

Henkell Freixenet is the world's largest sparkling wine producer, selling sparkling wines, still wines and spirits in more than 150 countries. The company is owned by the German Oetker family and was created through the combination of Henkell and Freixenet. It is particularly strong in Sekt, Cava, Prosecco, Champagne and Crémant, and claims to serve around one in every ten glasses of sparkling wine consumed globally.