Core Viewpoint - Marie Brizard Wine and Spirits is implementing cost-saving measures due to a significant decline in profits, with net profit dropping 60% year-on-year in the first half of 2025 [1][2]. Financial Performance - The company's net profit decreased to €2.6 million ($3 million), while EBITDA fell over 30% to €5.9 million [1]. - Revenues dropped 8.5% to €86.6 million, with a more severe decline of 13.7% in the second quarter [2]. - Domestic sales saw EBITDA decrease nearly 50% to €3.7 million, attributed to reduced sales and increased costs of matured spirits [4]. Market Conditions - The declines in performance were attributed to sluggish market conditions, lack of price agreements for the William Peel Scotch brand in France, and stock adjustments by distributors, particularly in the United States [2][3]. - Profitability in the US market significantly declined due to sharp sales drops, although profitability in Spanish and Lithuanian subsidiaries helped offset this loss [3]. Strategic Initiatives - The company has initiated a "cost control programme" to protect profitability and address ongoing trade tensions [3]. - Measures to protect profitability include reducing certain expenses, accelerating productivity projects, and implementing commercial initiatives with positive short-term effects [5]. - Price adjustments in response to inflation in matured spirits costs are deemed unavoidable, and the company is engaging in dialogue with customers to reach balanced commercial terms [5][6]. Outlook - The company anticipates 2025 to be a "year of transition" as it navigates the challenges posed by rising costs and market conditions [4].