French Tax Probe Rocks Castel Beer Empire

A significant French tax investigation has become a focal point in the ongoing internal conflict within the Castel Group, a global beer and wine conglomerate. This probe has escalated tensions between CEO Gregory Clerc and various family members of the 99-year-old founder, Pierre Castel.

Family members, including nephew Alain Castel, have publicly discussed the investigation, with Alain speculating a potential payout of approximately €1 billion. The board of a key holding company, D.F. Holding, has publicly rebuked family members for discussing the matter, emphasizing its confidential nature. This dispute is primarily about operational control and governance, following a failed attempt by family members earlier this year to remove the CEO.

The Castel Group, which reported sales of around €6.5 billion in 2024, is not alone in facing increased fiscal scrutiny. France has recently intensified tax pressure on family-controlled businesses, similar to cases involving Lactalis and the Mulliez dynasty. This trend aligns with a broader political debate in France concerning higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations.

The French tax authorities' investigation has been confirmed by Pierre Castel's daughter, Romy. Alain Castel, who also leads the wine division, suggested the family is prepared to pay if necessary, referencing a past tax evasion case involving Pierre Castel in Switzerland. That 2023 ruling ordered Pierre Castel to pay over €350 million in back taxes and penalties, with Gregory Clerc serving as his tax lawyer at the time.