The penultimate weekend was a landmark moment for Cricova, owners of the world’s largest wine cellar and the second-largest winery globally, as they signed a trade agreement with Lagardère France, a leading luxury retail and distribution firm.

The event, held in Paris on March 12, 2025, was attended by the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, and the Chief Executive Officer of Cricova S.A., Sorin Maslo.

Africa was not left out of the celebrations, as Cricova’s African partner, Don Pee Wine and Beverages Ltd, was represented by its dynamic CEO, Dr. Onyeka C. Ogbatu (Don Pee).

Following the signing ceremony, the Cricova jet transported the winery’s management team from Paris to Düsseldorf, Germany, for the International Trade Fair for Wines and Spirits, held from March 16 to 18, 2025.

A key highlight of the event was a meeting between the Cricova management team, led by CEO Sorin Maslo, and Don Pee Wine and Beverages Ltd. The Don Pee team received widespread recognition for their contributions to Cricova’s growth in Africa.

Former Moldovan Foreign Affairs Minister and current Moldovan Ambassador to Germany, Aureliu Ciocoi, along with Moldova’s Minister of Agriculture, Ludmila Catla Buga, commended Dr. Onyeka Ogbatu for successfully introducing Cricova brands to Africa, starting with Nigeria and Ghana.

To honor their commitment, Cricova presented special gifts to Don Pee Wine and Beverages, including an appreciation letter to the De Imperial Philanthropic Family for adopting Cricova as their official brand. Additionally, a case of Cricova 1982 Reserve Pastoral Red Sweet Wine was gifted to Chief Dr. Henry Ugonna Orabuchi, CEO of Teka Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Nigeria, in celebration of his birthday.

“Cricova is changing the narrative in the liquor and wine industry with quality, premium, and luxury brands,” said Obifaruk Madu, Cricova Africa’s Head of Communication.