Campari Group growth and Spritz impact

In the first half of 2026 Campari Group reported a 2.7% organic increase in net sales to €1.51 billion, driven by growth across its aperitif, agave, cognac and champagne divisions. Adjusted operating profit rose 8.5% to €358 million, prompting the company to raise its full‑year profit guidance and reaffirm a 3% organic sales growth target for FY26. CEO Simon Hunt credited a “fewer bigger bets” strategy, accelerated promotional spending of €264 million (17.4% of net sales), and new formats such as Aperol To Go and ready‑to‑serve Spritz. International expansion continued, with Sarti Rosa entering the U.S. market and strong performance in Germany.

A scientific study released in early August 2026 found a direct link between the global popularity of the Aperol Spritz and a surge in Italian Prosecco exports, noting the cocktail’s 2011 inclusion on the International Bartenders Association list as a catalyst. Aperol now accounts for roughly one‑third of Campari’s €3 billion annual revenue, and the group is targeting the U.S. brunch market, promoting the Spritz’s moderate alcohol level as a resilient, trend‑friendly product.

Further market data show that Italian spirits export volume fell 5% in 2025, yet export value remained 33.7% above 2019 levels, generating €1.7 billion abroad. Domestic consumption dropped 10% to about 125 million litres, with 80% of bar patrons now choosing spirits in mixed drinks and 52% doing so at home, underscoring the growing preference for cocktail‑ready products that the Spritz exemplifies.