Pernod Ricard Expands SIP Supernova to 14 Countries, Adds Global Wildcard for Emerging Hospitality Talent

Pernod Ricard has announced the launch of its 2026 SIP Supernova competition, expanding its reach to 14 international markets and introducing a global wildcard entry for hospitality professionals outside those regions. The SIP Supernova program, part of the company’s Share. Inspire. Pioneer. (SIP) trade advocacy platform, is designed to support emerging talent in the hospitality industry with less than six years of experience.

The competition’s theme this year is “Sensory Architecture,” challenging participants to create drinks that engage all the senses, not just taste. Competitors are encouraged to consider elements such as temperature, glass shape, texture, effervescence, and the overall atmosphere in their cocktail presentations. The contest is open to hospitality professionals from China mainland, Hong Kong & Macau, South Korea, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates, Spain, Germany, South Africa, Malaysia, and Japan. The new global wildcard option allows applicants from other countries to participate as well.

Participants will work with a portfolio of seven Pernod Ricard brands: Código 1530, KI NO BI, Altos, Havana Club, Absolut, Jameson, and Monkey 47. The competition consists of three stages. First, each applicant must create a cocktail that stimulates multiple senses. Next, they submit an essay or video discussing what drives their growth, community involvement, and creativity. Finally, they provide another essay or video addressing a current major issue in hospitality and propose solutions. These stages are designed to showcase expertise in creativity and innovation, hosting and service, and operations and systems.

Throughout the process, successful applicants gain access to SIP’s ongoing events and direct mentorship opportunities through MentorSIP. This mentorship initiative features industry leaders such as Juliette Larrouy (co-founder of Schmuck in New York), Keith Motsi (head bartender at Virtu in Four Seasons Tokyo), Jean Trinh (founder of Alquímico in Cartagena), and Danil Nevsky (ranked fifth most influential bartender by Bar World 100). These mentors will guide participants as they develop their skills and navigate the competition.

Local heats will be held in each participating market. Winners from these rounds will advance to the global final in Tokyo scheduled for early May next year. At the final event, three global winners will be selected for a SIP internship. This internship includes an educational program hosted by a team from one of the World’s 50 Best Bars and a visit to Pernod Ricard’s Código 1530 Tequila distillery in Jalisco, Mexico.

Pauline de Pins, Pernod Ricard’s global trade advocacy leader, emphasized that SIP Supernova is not a traditional cocktail competition but rather an initiative aimed at empowering participants with educational tools and experiences to help them lead the next generation of hospitality professionals. Roland Krupinski, head of global on-trade development at Pernod Ricard, described SIP Supernova as “more than a stage – it’s a spark,” highlighting its focus on creativity, leadership, and community support.

By expanding its program to new markets and offering opportunities for mentorship and professional development, Pernod Ricard aims to invest in the future of hospitality and encourage innovation among emerging professionals worldwide. The company’s commitment is reflected in its efforts to provide resources and guidance for those looking to build their careers in the industry.