Campari CEO: Focus on getting leverage down to have options

Campari CEO: Focus on getting leverage down to have options

Campari Group CEO Simon Hunt has emphasized debt reduction as the company's immediate priority, signaling a strategic shift away from short-term mergers and acquisitions. In recent statements, Hunt confirmed that the Italian spirits maker will focus on lowering its leverage ratio from 2.9 times EBITDA to approximately 2.5 times, a goal he described as critical to restoring financial flexibility. This target could be partially achieved through the divestiture of smaller, non-core brands, though Hunt stressed that any future M&A activity would be "selective" once debt levels stabilize.

The company's portfolio includes over 70 brands, such as Campari, Wild Turkey bourbon, Espolon tequila, Aperol, and non-alcoholic Crodino. Hunt highlighted untapped growth potential within existing assets, particularly in the U.S. market for Aperol, which aligns with rising consumer demand for lower-alcohol and aperitif-style beverages. Campari's long-term strategy, outlined during an investor day, aims for mid-to-high single-digit revenue growth over the medium term, though specific timelines remain unprovided due to "volatility outside of our control" according to strategy analysis.

With a net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 3.4 times in Q1 2025 as reported by MatrixBCG, the company faces pressure to balance debt reduction with strategic investments. Hunt acknowledged macroeconomic challenges but expressed confidence in leveraging portfolio strength and consumer trends to drive organic growth. The CEO's approach reflects a cautious, portfolio-centric strategy, prioritizing financial discipline while positioning Campari to capitalize on market opportunities in the long term.

(https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/campari-strategy-zero/): Reuters, November 2025
(https://www.reuters.com/business/campari-ceo-says-cutting-debt-ratio-takes-priority-over-ma-2025-11-07/): Reuters, November 2025
(https://matrixbcg.com/blogs/growth-strategy/camparigroup): MatrixBCG, growth strategy analysis
(https://www.globalbankingandfinance.com/campari-strategy-zero/): GlobalBankingAndFinance.com, Campari strategy report
(https://www.reuters.com/business/campari-ceo-says-cutting-debt-ratio-takes-priority-over-ma-2025-11-07/): Reuters, November 2025