SWEDISH GOVERNMENT TO SELL ABSOLUT?

Absolut may soon be for sale due to a change in government in Sweden. WSJ reported that after a 12-year rule by Prime Minister Göran Persson's Social Democrats, Sweden has elected the more market-friendly Fredrik Reinfeldt of the Alliance group. The new prime minister is committed to selling state assets which could comprise up to 57 companies, including Vin & Sprit, owners of Absolut, Cruzan rum and Plymouth gin. No formal plans have been announced yet.

Who may be in the running to purchase the coveted brand? It’s too early to tell at this point, but more details will likely surface after the new Prime Minister takes office October 6. Adding Absolut would certainly benefit any company’s portfolio since it’s the world’s 5th biggest spirits brand with 9 million case sales. Potential bidders could include A-B, B-F, Constellation, Bacardi, or Pernod.