General Mills, Inc.

From acquisitions and divestitures to name changes and new leadership appointments, 2013 was full of memorable moments. This annual list of the top publicly traded consumer goods companies provides a snapshot of organizations that succeeded in upping their growth games.

Analysts Alexia Howard and April Scee weigh in on the hottest consumer trends, the rise of niche brands and future M&A activity.

General Mills, Inc. announces that its tender offer to purchase all issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Annie's, Inc. at a price of $46.00 per share was successful.

Some of the worlds largest global food and beverage companies strengthen their common commitments on responsible marketing to children with a new policy.

Closures of the manufacturing facility in California and yogurt facility in Massachusetts would have a combined impact on over 500 employees.

The two leaders each bring nearly 20 years of experience within the CPG industry from companies such as Kraft Foods, General Mills, Dole Food Company and Campbells.

The proposed acquisition will expand General Mills fast-growing natural and organic foods business, and has an aggregate value of approximately $820 million.

Current CEO Gary M. Rodkin has informed the ConAgra Foods Board of Directors of his intention to retire at the end of the companys fiscal year in May 2015.