SALES OF Jameson Irish whiskey rose 12 per cent in the year to June 30th, making it one of the fastest-growing brands owned by global drinks giant Pernod Ricard.

The multinational’s annual results, published in Paris yesterday, show a four per cent rise in recurring operating profit to €1.795 billion, helped by improving trends in the US, eastern Europe and emerging markets.

Jameson sales volumes reached 2.92 million cases, with double-digit growth in 24 out of more than 100 markets around the world where it is sold.

Its value rose by 12 per cent, making it – along with Martell cognac – the best performer among Pernod Ricard’s top 14 premium global brands. That category also includes Absolut Vodka; scotches Chivas, Ballantine’s and Glenlivet; Perrier-Jouët champagne; and a range of other spirits.

The success of Jameson, which is part of the Irish Distillers Group, was helped by strong growth of 24 per cent in the US, its biggest market.

“It’s an extraordinarily dynamic brand in the United States,” Pernod Ricard chief executive Pierre Pringuet told a press briefing.

Mr Pringuet predicted the global drinks market would develop this year, underpinned by strong growth in Asia and Latin America and a gradual recovery in consumer spending in the US. There were also “encouraging” signs in Europe, but the company reported a sluggish year in much of the continent, notably in Spain, the UK and Ireland.

In a note on the “very fragile and difficult” domestic market, Irish Distillers referred to “the continuing and chronic” decline of consumption in pubs, but noted that Jameson’s share of the overall spirits sector grew, thanks to particularly strong sales in retail.

The company also confirmed plans to expand operations at its Co Cork base.

The expansion will involve new distillation and maturation facilities, and a site has already been identified for the development near Dungourney, Co Cork.