Campari Group sales dip in Q3 following macro weakness

Investing.com -- Campari Group reported weaker third-quarter results, citing macroeconomic challenges and weather-related disruptions.

Group sales for the first nine months of 2024 increased by 2.1% organically, reaching €2.28 billion, but Q3 saw a 1.4% decline.

Campari (LON:0ROY ) highlighted "muted top-line performance" due to inflationary pressures, poor weather, and reduced consumer confidence, particularly in key markets.

The company noted that the Americas struggled with "persisting challenges in selected categories," with U.S. consumption remaining subdued and a hurricane affecting Jamaica.

In Europe, Campari's performance was impacted by weak consumer demand, worsened by poor spring and summer weather. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region faced ongoing macroeconomic challenges.

Earnings also took a hit. Adjusted EBIT for the first nine months fell 4.2% organically to €499.4 million, with a sharp 18.2% drop in Q3.

Adjusted EBITDA also declined 14% in Q3, with Campari attributing the dip to "unfavorable sales mix" and higher fixed production costs.

Looking ahead, Campari expects continued macroeconomic headwinds but anticipates a return to stronger growth by 2025. The group aims to leverage its core brands, such as aperitifs and tequila, while streamlining its portfolio and focusing on cost efficiency.

"Campari Group expects to continue to achieve sector outperformance and market share gains leveraging its strong brands in growing categories with a gradual return in the medium-term to mid-to-high single-digit organic net sales growth trajectory in a normalized macro environment," the company stated.

They added that accretion on EBIT margin will be supported by the positive impact of sales growth and mix driven by aperitifs, tequila and premiumization across the portfolio.

In line with its medium-term strategy, Campari announced a new operating model structured around "Houses of Brands" to better align with growth categories.

Additionally, the company will launch a €40 million share buyback program on October 30 to support its stock option and incentive plans.

Source: Investing.com