An industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience in the fast moving consumer goods industry across a number of drinks roles, including leadership positions within Nestlé Waters, Diageo and Carlsberg Group.
Fantacchiotti joined Campari Group in January 2020 as managing director for its Asia Pacific operations, before moving to become group deputy CEO. Following the departure of Bob Kunze-Concewitz in April of this year, Fantacchiotti took the mantle of CEO, but stepped down just five months later in September.
Cygnet co-founder Andrew Levitas described Fantacchiotti as the ideal partner to help the brand deliver on its promise to ensure audiences have a taste of luxury and revolutionise the way people enjoy gin globally.
Common vision
Commenting on his appointment, Fantacchiotti said he shared a common vision to pioneer the luxury gin category with founders Katherine Jenkins OBE and Andrew Levitas.
“The recent gin trend and subsequent diversification of the category that saw a broad array of colour and flavour innovation hasn’t always stayed true to the category or enhanced the consumer experience,” he continued.
“With this exceptional brand, it’s time to shift the paradigm and offer consumers the quality and experiences they truly deserve through elevating the category with luxury gin. The Cygnet collection is crafted for those who, like its founder, value mindful indulgence, where luxury is balanced with intention.”
Reach across the UK
Founded by artist and actor Andrew Levitas and classical singer Katherine Jenkins in 2023, Cygnet is now listed in selected Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, Tesco and Co-op stores across the country, as well as in Fortnum & Mason, Harvey Nichols and online retailer Master of Malt.
Jenkins added: “What began as a personal journey to create a luxurious gin, one I could enjoy between performances, has evolved into a commitment to deliver the very best gin to consumers worldwide and in Matteo, we have found the ideal partner to support us on this mission. I firmly believe every one of us deserves the best.”
Meanwhile, the RSPCA has named Shān Nicholas as its interim chief executive.
