Campari Group has followed Brown-Forman in announcing a global restructure and has confirmed it is reviewing its current employee base.

The Group said needed to take some “tough decisions, such as organisational restructuring” to ensure the group’s return to financial health.

It follows an announcement in October 2024 that a cost containment program would be undertaken by the Group as part of a switch to a ‘Houses of Brands’ operating model.

The new Houses of Brands are: the House of Cognac & Champagne; the House of Aperitifs; House of Whiskey and Rum; and the House of Tequila Each house will focus on premiumisation and be responsible for its global category profit and loss and resource allocation.

Campari reported a 18.2% drop in third-quarter operating profit, warning that its fourth-quarter results would be hit by lower production volume and an unfavourable sales mix. Those results are due to be released next month.

Campari made an official statement overnight following reports the group was working to cut its workforce by 10%.

“As previously announced (in October), changes in our top-line performance and existing infrastructure investments have impacted on our profitability, requiring a more efficient resource allocation,” a Campari Group spokesperson said.

“These measures, although difficult, aim to ensure a return to the overall medium and long-term financial health and sustainability of Campari Group. Wherever these tough decisions are implemented, we shall act with the utmost respect and consideration, providing all necessary support to the impacted employees, as we have always done.

“This is a wide and ongoing process, … therefore, it is currently difficult to provide a specific global number.”

The restructure follows a turbulent leadership period for the Campari Group.

Campari Group Australia Managing Director Simon Durrant announced in June 2024 that he was leaving the business. Durrant had been in the role since 2018.

Campari Group announced Matteo Fantacchiotti’s resignation as global CEO after just six months in the role. Fantacchiotti replaced Bob Kunze-Concewitz when he retired, but has announced his resignation due to personal reasons. Prior to becoming Campari CEO Fantacchiotti was the Group’s Managing Director Asia Pacific.

Campari announced in December 2024 that it had nominated industry veteran Simon Hunt as its new Chief Executive Officer. The former Chief Executive Officer of William Grant & Sons has more than 30 years of experience in the spirits industry across international markets. An Australian and British citizen, Hunt’s drinks career commenced at Diageo.

Brown-Forman announced last month that it would be cutting 12% of its global workforce and closing its cooperage. Around 600 jobs will be cut from its workforce, while its leadership structure in Asia Pacific will be consolidated with other markets.