Ex-Amber Beverage CEO backs aperitivo brand

The former CEO of Amber Beverage Group (ABG), Jekaterina Stuģe, has made a ‘strategic investment’ in Italian aperitivo brand Sprissetto as it grows overseas.

Stuģe left her position with Amber Beverage Group in January after three years following a mutual agreement.

The value of her investment in Sprissetto is undisclosed.

Sprissetto founder Marco Lo Greco said her involvement is a “game-changer” for the brand.

He continued: “Her vast industry expertise will be critical as we advance our international expansion without compromising the integrity and authenticity of our products. With her on board, we’re set to expand our reach into other markets and strengthen our existing markets.”

The brand aims to ‘redefine the aperitivo experience on a global scale’ and said Stuģe was drawn to its ‘mission, commitment to excellence and innovative approach to aperitivo culture’.

At the time of Stuģe’s departure, ABG said her tenure as CEO was a ‘transformative era marked by strategic foresight and expansion-focused initiatives’. In 2022, ABG reported a ‘record year’ with double-digit sales growth of 17.9%.

Lo Greco added: “Stuģe’s strategic insights and proven track record in scaling brands globally will accelerate our journey, while we remain committed to delivering the exceptional quality and creativity that define us.”

With support from Stuģe, Sprissetto will ‘significantly’ expand its distribution footprint as it brings its aperitivo worldwide. The brand was founded by Lo Greco in 2020 and has six products in its range: Classico, Bitter, Venezia, Eden, Sud and a non-alcoholic Zero expression.

Since its inception, it has expanded to more than 10 markets alongside its native Italy.

Stuģe added: “I am thrilled to join such a fast-growing brand in a vibrant category. Sprissetto’s unique fusion of tradition and innovation sets it apart, and I’m confident we can achieve exceptional results by combining our shared passion and exploring new growth avenues.”