Mergers & Acquisitions

As part of immediate initiative to drive improved performance, position Pfizer for future success and enhance total shareholder return its cost reduction initiatives, 10,000 positions (about 10 percent of Pfizer's total worldwide workforce) will be eliminated by the end of next year.

Coca-Cola is reorganizing its marketing department to report to newly appointed COO Muhtar Kent. Mary Minnick, the head of the company's marketing, strategy and innovation division, will leave at the end of next month to pursue opportunities in the U.K. and will not be replaced.

Tommy Hilfiger Retail LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tommy Hilfiger Corporation forms a strategic partnership with Fulfillment Technologies LLC (FillTek), a full-service provider of order fulfillment, customer care and information technology services, to support Tommy Hilfiger's eCommerce Sales at www.shoptommy.com

Fossil Inc. appointed Elaine Agather, chairman and chief executive officer of Chase - Dallas, to its Board of Directors, effective February 12, 2007.

Sugar processor Imperial Sugar Co. names John C. Sheptor as executive vice president and chief operating officer.

The Blackstone Group enters into a definitive agreement to acquire Pinnacle Foods Group Inc., a manufacturer, marketer and distributor of branded food products in the United States and Canada, for approximately $2.16 billion in cash.

Zilliant, a provider of price optimization and management software, and Deloitte Consulting LLP, a professional services firms, form a strategic alliance to provide total price management software and services.

VF Outdoor Inc., a subsidiary of VF Corporation, is in negotiation to acquire Eagle Creek Inc., a supplier of adventure travel gear, including accessories, luggage, daypacks and other products.