Pernod NA CEO Outlines Game Plan to Address US Slump

Dear Client:  Pernod Ricard North America ceo Conor McQuaid hosted a call this morning to take a closer look at their US business in particular and answer burning questions from industry analysts.  SETTING THE SCENE. "Compared to last year, the US market has softened, with bottled spirits (excluding RTD) year-to-date at around -5% in value, and we are seeing that affordability pressure has become the most persistent challenge," opened Conor in his prepared remarks.  "Our view remains that current pressures