Swiss packaged food giant Nestle is interested in acquiring Mead Johnson (NYSE: MJN), an Illinois-based company that manufactures and sells infant formulas or other nutritional products, according to a person claiming to have knowledge of the matter.
Credit Suisse is advising on the potential deal, and if talks go smoothly a transaction could be announced before March, the person said.
Mead Johnson has an enterprise value of roughly $14.5 billion, and it is seen as among a handful of companies that stand at the nexus of a major consolidation wave in consumer staples, especially in packaged food. Chatter about a potential takeover has been around since last March, several months before Danone’s proposed $12.5 billion takeover of peer WhiteWave was announced. At the time, Danone and Nestle were both mentioned as potential suitors for Mead Johnson.
A representative for Nestle said it doesn’t comment on rumors as a matter of principle. Mead Johnson didn’t respond to a request to comment.
Source: Street Insider
Danone has appointed Carla Hilhorst to the newly created position of senior vice president of research and innovation categories and zones, as the company looks to make science the heart of its business. Hilhorst, who brings over 30 years of experience in research and innovation, will report directly to Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
Schai – who is the current CEO of Swiss chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli’s Australian operation – has previously worked with Aryzta from 2015-2018, where he served in roles including managing director for Asia Pacific and global strategic business lead (McDonald’s). The fast-food giant McDonald’s is one of Aryzta’s significant clients.
