Maison Pommery’s shares rise on back of Henkel merger talks

Champagne house Maison Pommery is in exclusive talks with German sparkling wine giant Henkell International about a potential merger that would make Henkell the majority shareholder. The proposed partnership would combine complementary portfolios and create a stronger global player in sparkling wines, with Henkell Freixenet already owning brands like Freixenet, Mionetto, and Alfred Gratien. The news boosted Pommery's share price by 15%, though negotiations remain subject to due diligence and there's no guarantee a deal will be finalised.