Supply Chain

Along with the naming announcement, Sara Lee revealed its strategy for its North American foods business, Hillshire Brands Company, which emphasized new product development, marketing investment and disciplined cost control.

New products generated 10.5 percent of net revenue in 2011, up from 7.4 percent in 2009. And as Kraft Foods plans to divide into two independent public companies, the company's R&D team has a robust development pipeline that's already delivered more than 70 new products in the past year.

This transformational acquisition is expected to position Smart Balance as a leader in the gluten-free category, accelerate its growth rate, and further diversify its mix toward high-growth natural brands.

One of companys most experienced global executives will lead top global growth initiative for Sharpie, Paper Mate brands.

Intelligent innovation is going to be key to the CG industry's performance in the coming year. New research from CGT and IDC Manufacturing Insights examines the progress companies are making in TPM, downstream data, direct-to-consumer selling, social business and mobility.

The addition of the iconic snack business makes Kellogg the world's second-largest savory snack company.

Faced with increasing commodity price volatility, channel complexity and the persistence of sizable trade budgets, many consumer packaged goods companies are looking to fundamentally change or upgrade their trade promotion management (TPM) capabilities.

Alison Sweeney, host of NBC's "The Biggest Loser" and mother of two, will help select finalists for the Facebook photo contest.