Campari Chairman Luca Garavoglia Navigates Leadership Changes Amid Market Challenges

Italian billionaire Luca Garavoglia continues to lead Campari Group through significant transitions as the company faces market challenges in early 2025. The 55-year-old chairman, who has held his position since 1994, recently oversaw another leadership change when CEO Matteo Fantacchiotti stepped down after just five months in the role. This development came after Fantacchiotti’s comments about “soft” US demand caused a notable decline in Campari’s share price.

Under Garavoglia’s stewardship, Campari Group maintains ambitious growth plans, particularly focusing on expansion in the US and Chinese markets. His current net worth stands at $4.11 billion, marking a modest increase of 9.47 million dollars from 2023, though he recently experienced a 1.77% decrease of 72.65 million dollars. Garavoglia currently ranks 781st globally among billionaires and holds the 21st position among Italy’s wealthiest individuals.

The Milan-born business leader’s journey began with his education at Milan’s Istituto Leone XIII and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Bocconi University in 1994. His leadership has been marked by significant achievements, including Campari’s listing on the Milan stock exchange in 2001 and successful private placements in the US market. The company’s portfolio has grown substantially under his guidance, now encompassing iconic brands such as Campari bitter, Aperol, and Wild Turkey bourbon.

Garavoglia’s influence expanded significantly following his mother Rosa Anna Magno Garavoglia’s passing in 2016, when he assumed control of Alicros, which owns 51 percent of Campari’s equity. Beyond his role at Campari, he has served on the boards of several prestigious organizations, including Indesit and Fiat, and has been actively involved with the FAI Foundation since 2005 and the Telethon Foundation since 2011.

Despite recent market challenges, Garavoglia remains committed to Campari’s long-term vision, emphasizing the company’s “strong group organisation and unique portfolio”. His leadership continues to shape the global beverage industry, building on a legacy of strategic acquisitions and market expansion that has characterized his nearly three-decade tenure as chairman.