NEW ACQUISITIONS STRENGTHEN CAMPARI IN THE U.S.

Campari reported solid growth in its first half results, with spirits sales rising 45% in the Americas and wine increasing 6%. Skyy sales rose 13.3% overall, thanks to a “very positive performance” from the US and other international markets. Meanwhile, Sella & Mosca vermouth also saw a solid performance in the US and Germany markets.

On August 1, the company finalized the acquisition of the super-premium X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, Jean-Marc XO vodka and X-Rated vodka for a total of $40 million. Campari also announced that its US distribution contracts for 1800 and Gran Centenario tequilas will end on December 31, 2007.

Furthermore, Campari says it will refocus its tequila business on the newly acquired Cabo Wabo brand, while at the same time using X-Rated “to further strengthen our presence in the key US ultra premium spirits market.”