15.09.2000, MEDIAMAX, YEREVAN. If by September 18 the question of recognizing invalid the trademark of "Great Ararat" won't be solved, "Pernod Ricard", the owner of the Yerevan Brandy Factory (YBF) will refuse to buy grapes from local producers, says in the official statement of YBF. The leadership of the factory had earlier stated about its willingness to buy 10.000 tons of grapes. Today the YBF makes it clear that it may completely refuse to buy grapes, as "YBF is provided with raw materials for the coming 25 years".
The conflict between YBF and "Great Valley" company, which makes brandy under "Great Ararat" trademark, aroused after "Armpatent" took a decision, according to which "Great Valley" could realize the sale of the drink under "Ararat" trademark.
YBF declares that "Ararat" trademark was purchased in 1998 by Pernod Ricard company together with the Yerevan Brandy Factory and a whole number of other trademarks. In June 1998 the YBF was purchased by Pernod Ricard for 30 million dollars. -0-