Surprising resignation of the CEO of Diageo amid market challenges

Leading global beverage company Diageo took an unexpected step by dismissing its CEO Debra Crow without a pre-prepared succession plan. Temporarily, Financial Director Nick Giannini is taking over management responsibilities while searching for a new leader.

The decision comes after a series of challenges facing the company, including uneven sales and changing consumer habits. While Guinness continues to be extremely popular, other Diageo brands are reporting a significant decline in sales.

According to internal sources, the board has determined that despite achieved market results, shareholder value is not growing fast enough. Newly appointed Chairman John Manzoni emphasized Crow's contribution during pandemic challenges but supported the decision to replace her.

Statistical data shows dramatic fluctuations across the company's various brands. While Guinness marks a 13% growth over the last six months, leading products like Ciroc vodka and Captain Morgan rum register significant declines of 32% and 21% respectively.

An additional challenge for Diageo is the changing behavior of younger generation consumers, who demonstrate a persistent trend towards more moderate alcohol consumption. This factor further complicates the company's market strategy.

An interesting moment in recent months was the Guinness shortage in British pubs in December, when demand significantly exceeded expected delivery. Venue owners described the situation as "complete chaos", which further questioned management decisions.

Diageo's leadership is currently actively seeking a new CEO who can reorient the company towards more stable growth and respond to the challenges of the modern alcoholic beverage market.

Expectations are that the new leader will offer innovative solutions for addressing declining consumption among young consumers and restore the company's shareholder value.