CAMDEN, N.J., Mar 24, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) today announced that it will explore strategic alternatives, including possible divestiture, for its businesses in the U.K. and Ireland. The decision follows a review of Campbell’s international portfolio as part of the company’s ongoing strategic planning process.
The U.K. and Irish businesses have annual sales of approximately $490 million and include such brands as “Homepride” sauces, “OXO” dry stocks, “Batchelors” dry soup and meals, “Erin” dry soups and sauces, and “Fray Bentos” meat products.
Douglas R. Conant, Campbell’s President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Our portfolio in the U.K. and Ireland includes some strong brands, but it is highly fragmented and has not met our company’s growth expectations. It is time to explore strategic alternatives as we strive to optimize the value of these businesses to our shareowners. We remain committed to pursuing the best opportunities for profitable growth in international markets as well as in North America.”
Campbell has retained the Goldman Sachs Group as its adviser in this matter.
Forward Looking Statements
This release contains “forward-looking statements” which reflect the company’s expected future business and financial performance, including statements about future plans, strategies, opportunities and objectives of management; statements concerning expected development, market performance or consumption trends of new or reformulated products; statements concerning projections of sales, earnings or volume growth; and statements regarding assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are uncertain and are subject to risks. These uncertainties may cause our actual results to vary materially from those expressed or implied in our forward-looking statements. Please refer to the company’s most recent Form 10-K and subsequent filings for a further discussion of risks. The company disclaims any obligation to update its forward-looking statements.
About Campbell Soup Company
Campbell Soup Company is a global manufacturer and marketer of high quality simple meals, including soup, baked snacks, vegetable-based beverages, and premium chocolate products.
Founded in 1869, the company has a portfolio of more than 20 market-leading brands, including “Campbell’s,” “Pepperidge Farm,” “Arnott’s,” “V8,” and “Godiva.” For more information on the company, visit Campbell’s website at www.thecampbellscompany.com.
SOURCE: Campbell Soup Company
Campbell Soup Company Media: Jerry S. Buckley, 856-342-6007 or Analysts: Leonard F. Griehs, 856-342-6428