Lyon, May 31, 2026 – Pernod Ricard, the renowned French beverage company, has introduced a ready-to-drink version of its iconic anise-flavored spirit, Ricard. This new 20cl bottle, pre-mixed and ready for consumption, is set to officially launch in Lyon on June 1st at Le Justin. The company hopes this innovation will become a summer staple, though it is expected to spark debate among traditionalists regarding its convenience versus the ceremonial preparation of the drink.
A New Era for Ricard: Convenience Meets Tradition
For years, the perfect dosage of Ricard has been a subject of lively discussion, with enthusiasts often debating whether it’s too light or too strong, too diluted or too concentrated. As summer approaches, Pernod Ricard believes it has found a solution to this age-old dilemma with its new ready-to-drink offering. The visually appealing bottle, designed for collectors, is expected to attract both loyal Ricard fans and new consumers, particularly those who prefer a lighter drink, as it contains one part Ricard to ten parts water.
“A Bottle Designed as an Object in its Own Right”
Frédéric Tugler, Communication Director for the brand at Pernod Ricard France, highlighted the product’s dual appeal. “For purists, it might be a bit light, but here, the refreshing aspect is what we’re aiming for. There’s also a more practical side than the original bottle. It’s simpler to take to the beach or for a stroll,” Tugler explained. The new bottle, with its distinctive yellow and blue hues, has already seen success in supermarkets since its commercialization in early May, priced at €2.30 per unit or €5.95 for a pack of three.
Official Launch in Lyon: Kicking Off Summer with a Twist
Following its retail debut, the ready-to-drink Ricard will be introduced in various hospitality establishments. Lyon will host the official launch event at Le Justin on Monday, June 1st. This event will provide an opportunity for consumers to familiarize themselves with the new product, or perhaps to start their evening before moving on to a more traditional, stronger dose of Ricard.
Market Reception and Future Prospects
The introduction of a ready-to-drink format marks a significant strategic move for Pernod Ricard, aiming to capture a broader market segment looking for ease of use and portability. While the convenience factor is undeniable, the question remains whether this innovation will be embraced by long-time aficionados who cherish the ritual of preparing their Ricard. The company’s focus on the product’s refreshing qualities and practical advantages suggests a push towards a more casual consumption experience, potentially opening up new occasions for enjoying the classic drink.
This launch reflects a wider trend in the beverage industry towards ready-to-drink options, catering to evolving consumer preferences for convenience and on-the-go consumption. Pernod Ricard’s venture into this segment with one of its most iconic brands will be closely watched to see if it successfully balances tradition with modern demand.
Source: https://www.lyonpeople.com/actualites-lyon/actualites-economiques/lyon-lancement-dun-ricard-pret-a-boire-facilite-dusage-ou-trahison-2026-05-31.html
