It appears that the drinks giant, Pernod Ricard, is looking to increase its hold on the Cognac market.
The owner of Martell Cognac, the company has entered into exclusive talks to negotiate the purchase of Le Maine au Bois, owned by Pierre-Hubert Lassalle.

The company currently distils, stores and trades eaux-de-vie, and if the acquisition is successful, then it will be merged with the Martell Cognac arm of Pernod Ricard’s arsenal. No further information is currently available regarding the stage of negotiations or the financial aspect of the sale.
In a time where demand of eaux-de-vie is outstripping supply, this seems likely to be a prudent move by Pernod Ricard.
Sources: www.foxbusiness.com, www.drinksmediawire.com