Allied Domecq 'being eyed by Pernod'

Drinks giant Allied Domecq was today reported to be a takeover target of the French owner of Jameson whiskey, Chivas Regal whiskey and Jacob’s Creek wines.

Shares in Allied, which produces Beefeater gin and Tia Maria, surged 6% on the back of a media report that said it was the number-one acquisition choice of Pernod Ricard.