Drinks giant Pernod Ricard UK is moving into Chiswick Park after negotiations to occupy three storeys of Hammersmith’s newest office building reportedly fell through.
The makers of famous spirits, wines and champagnes such as Absolut vodka, Havana Club, Campo Viejo and Perrier-Jouet will move into the business park - home to several headquarters including The Walt Disney Company and Starbucks - this September after they announced the location of their new UK headquarters this week.
The news comes after months of speculation over the French company’s move from Lampton Road in Hounslow after allegations long-running talks to lease the top three floors of the 110,000 sq ft 10 Hammersmith Grove , Hammersmith’s newest A Grade office block, were shelved in November last year amid rumours of the price being too high and a lack of parking being an issue.
Development Securities, who manages the building, put the 37,000 sq ft space, understood to be around £47 per sq ft, back on the market and has not yet filled it.
The Chronicle revealed in October last year that UKTV, which runs channels such as Dave and Gold, had closed on a lease to secure the two floors below as their new London headquarters and are expected to move in September this year.
Denis O’Flynn, Pernod Ricard UK managing director, said: “We are delighted to announce the move to Chiswick Park which will bring our business and our people closer to the consumer and the customer in an innovative environment. The relocation of Pernod Ricard UK to such a prestigious and connected location is part of our company strategy to shape the nation’s drinking experiences. We look forward to welcoming our guests to our new offices.”
The move to Chiswick Park means Hammersmith and Fulham has missed out on enticing a big company to the borough but means Hounslow has managed to keep another major player.
Aurelie Kane, a spokeswoman for Pernod Ricard UK confirmed they considered numerous locations in London when they first embarked on their search but Chiswick was chosen as it met their full criteria.
As the Chronicle went to print a comment from Development Securities had not been received.
