Campbell Soup Reorganizing into 2 Units

Campbell Soup Co. said it will reorganize its North American operations into two business units, hoping to revitalize its stagnant soup business by separating it from the beverages and sauces operations. The realignment will put all of the company’s North American soups, which are sold mainly under the Campbell’s brand, into one unit, the company said. The second unit will consist of Campbell’s beverage, sauce and prepared foods businesses, which include V8 and V8 Splash beverages and Pace and Prego sauces. Campbell said F. Martin Thrasher, 50, president of Campbell North America, is leaving the company to pursue other career opportunities. Andrew Hughson, 46, will become president of the new North American soup division, reporting directly to Douglas Conant, who was named chief executive in January. The Camden, N.J.-based company said it is searching for someone to head North American beverages and sauces. Campbell shares rose 10 cents to close at $29.65 on the NYSE.