Lower demand for Champagne weighed heavily on French luxury goods group Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH) in 2009, despite signs of a recovery in the fourth quarter.

Wine and spirits sales fell by 14% on a like-for-like basis for the 12 months to the end of December, to EUR2.74bn (US$3.75bn), said the producer of Moet & Chandon Champagne, Hennessy Cognac and Glenmornagie Scotch whisky yesterday (4 February).

Sales were EUR3.1bn in 2008.

Profits from recurring operations in the wine & spirits division fell by 28% to EUR760m, from more than EUR1bn in 2008.

The downturn in demand, echoed by most other major Champagne and Cognac producers, weighed on LVMH as a group. It reported like-for-like group-wide sales down 4% to EUR17bn and like-for-like profits down 8% to EUR3.35bn for the year.

However, drinks sales “improved significantly” in the fourth quarter, said the group.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

“Hennessy, which demonstrated good resilience in 2009, registered growth in the fourth quarter due to strong renewed momentum in the United States and in China,” it said.

Subscribe to Just Drinks for just £1 for 1 month

Stay ahead with unbiased news, expert commentary, and in-depth features on global topics.

As a trusted provider of data and insights, Just Drinks collaborates closely with industry leaders and professionals to offer unique thought leadership and analysis. Gain a deeper understanding of the drinks industry’s trajectory and the priorities shaping the profession.

What’s included in your subscription:
  • Personalized Access: Secure login to Just Drinks
  • Industry News & Expert Commentary: Timely updates and exclusive C-level interviews.
  • Case Studies & Deep Dives: Real-world applications and in-depth analyses.
  • Exclusive Subscriber Newsletter: Weekly top features, plus a new thematic report and webinar.

Ready to stay informed?

Subscribe to unlock exclusive content.

Already a subscriber? Sign in to access your account.

Pleasecomplete this form to request more information, and a representative will be in touch shortly.