just the round-up - The week in drinks

The top ten most visited stories on just-drinks this week:

Demise of Pernod Ricard/Campari alliance

CENT. EUROPE: Pernod Ricard calls time on Campari distribution alliance

Pernod Ricard has announced plans to cease distribution of Campari International's brands in southern Central Europe.

William Grant's global revamp

UK: William Grant readies GBP35m revamp, promo push

William Grant & Sons has lined up a sizeable investment for a packaging revamp of its flagship Grant's Scotch whisky brand.

Cadbury Schweppes' demerger plans

UK/US: Cadbury Schweppes outlines DPSG demerger plan

Cadbury Schweppes has confirmed a timescale for the proposed demerger of its US soft drinks business.

Anheuser-Busch chief's 2007 salary

US: 2007 A-B heads' pay details divulged

The head of Anheuser-Busch took home over US$12m in 2007, according to a recent filing.

UK Budget hammers drinks industry

UK: Spirits main losers in UK Budget - industry "disappointed"

Taxes on alcohol in the UK have been raised markedly in today's (12 March) Budget announcement.

Former Diageo NA head joins Foster's

AUS: Former Diageo NA chief joins Foster's board

Foster's group has announced the addition of a former Diageo executive to its board of directors.

Purple Beverage increases US footprint

US: Purple Beverage signs California distribution deal

Purple Beverage Company has signed a distribution agreement with Haralambos Beverage Company for the placement of its Purple soft drinks brand in outlets in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.

Research details growth options for soft drinks

US: CSDs continue slowdown, as new lines continue growth

Newer beverage lines continue to drive growth in the US soft drink market, which enlarged by 1.3% in 2007, according to figures released this week.

Champagne region revamp announced

FRANCE: INAO approves Champagne region revision

To a backdrop of growing global demand, the national committee of French AOC validating body, the INAO, has unanimously approved a project to enlarge the production zone of Champagne which until now has been restricted by legislation dating back to 1927.

CEDC Parliament buy progresses

POLAND: CEDC finalises Parliament buy, raises full year estimates

Central European Distribution Corporation (CEDC) has closed its acquisition of an 85% interest in Copecresto Enterprises Limited, which owns the Parliament vodka trademarks in Russia and abroad.