Hershey Co.

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.

The new candy section, best described as a store within a store, has shown in testing that it can lift confection category sales for retailers by strong double digits.

China is Hersheys number one priority international market for growth. The company has increased its investment in China over the past several years and is one of the fastest growing confection companies in China.

The Hershey Company announced that David W. Tacka, senior vice president and chief financial officer, intends to retire from the company at the end of the year.

The broad makeover of the confectionery companys corporate branding includes a new global visual identity that supports its global growth vision.

General Mills is tapping into the latest consumer-driven food trends with its new lineup of more than 150 product innovations launching this summer.

The company will focus efforts on branded products and growth categories such as "better-for-you" snacks.

CGT proudly presents its newest class of Visionaries; 11 consumer goods professionals who are shaping the future of their companies with unprecedented business and technology initiatives.