Pernod Ricard Weighs Deal for Jack Daniel’s Maker Brown-Forman

Pernod Ricard SA is exploring a potential acquisition of Brown-Forman Corp., the owner of Jack Daniel’s whiskey, as alcoholic drink companies look at ways to consolidate amid an industry downturn, people familiar with the matter said.

The French beverages company has held some initial discussions with Louisville, Kentucky-based Brown-Forman about a potential combination, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the information is private.