Social gatherings and moments of celebration are vital for fostering safe and responsible spaces where people can unite and combat isolation. Pernod Ricard is dedicated to elevating these occasions into authentic experiences of conviviality and sharing, ensuring they are enjoyed responsibly and inclusively, with or without alcohol.
However, parties and gatherings are not without risk. Moments of togetherness may fail to include those experiencing isolation, anti-social behaviour can be a threat to personal safety, and, when alcohol is involved, excessive consumption can cause harm to individuals and their communities. Worldwide, 3 million deaths every year result from harmful use of alcohol. This represents 5.3% of all deaths (1). Recent statistics indicate that feelings of isolation are on the rise globally, with some reports suggesting that up 1 in 4 young adults experience social isolation (2).
As part of a longstanding commitment to promoting moderation, Pernod Ricard’s flagship programme Drink More Water encourages young adults to stay hydrated when socializing and reminds them to enjoy the moment and create memorable experiences. To truly generate the social and health benefits of togetherness, we must continue to work together to create safer and more responsibly enjoyed spaces. On the frontline in the fight against isolation and the harmful use of alcohol, the hospitality sector plays a pivotal role in realising environments that promote moderation and personal well-being. In a world increasingly dominated by extremes and polarized perspectives, where nuances and moderation struggle to exist, it is more important than ever to create spaces that encourage responsible drinking and shape the future of socialization to be more mindful and inclusive.
Pernod Ricard's Bar World of Tomorrow initiative is at the forefront of this mission, empowering bartenders and hospitality professionals with the tools and knowledge to foster a culture of responsibility and sustainability. Through targeted training and advocacy, this initiative aims to transform the hospitality and bartending community into champions of moderation and environmental stewardship. The aim is to equip industry professionals to serve as role models, encouraging mindful drinking behaviors and offering alternative, non-alcoholic options to ensure that everyone has a place at the table.
This ambition can only be achieved if we engage meaningfully with the hospitality sector and young adults. This is why we’re teaming up with One Young World, the global community for young leaders, to launch the One Young World | Pernod Ricard Scholarship.
The scholarship will identify and connect an interdisciplinary team of 10 committed young leaders who are working to build positive social spaces and tackle harmful drinking and its wider impacts in their countries and communities. Scholars will receive full funding to participate in the One Young World Summit 2025 which takes place in Munich, Germany from 3 - 6 November.
Scholars will participate in the Summit as members of Pernod Ricard’s delegation, have opportunities to help shape our interventions at the event and receive expert mentorship to accelerate their initiatives. In addition, scholars will participate in post Summit collective thinking sessions to reflect on the future of socialising.