Danone CEO Franck Riboud surprised this market this week with his decision to step down from the role after 18 years. Elsewhere, a report into the UK food supply chain was published, while KP Snacks announced it is mulling the closure of two of its UK plants. Here is the week in quotes.
“I want to ensure that Danone has everything it needs to lay the groundwork for its future – which is why I recommended separating the functions of chairman and chief executive officer and paving the way for the arrival of a new generation to guide Danone” – Franck Riboud explains why he recommended Danone’s board split the roles of chairman and CEO, meaning deputy chief executive Emmanuel Faber will take the top job.
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“The food industry must above all else demonstrate that having a safe, high integrity food system for the UK is their main responsibility and priority” – Professor Chris Elliott publishes his review into the UK food supply chain, a report commissioned by the country’s government after the horsemeat scandal.
“When a shopper picks something up from a supermarket shelf it should be exactly what it says on the label, and we’ll crack down on food fraudsters trying to con British consumers” – Environment Secretary for the UK Liz Truss announces the construction of a food crime unit to improve consumer confidence in the UK supply chain.
“Unfortunately, despite plans to grow our Pom-Bear business, our Corby factory is capacity constrained and has been for some time” – Nick Bunker, CEO of KP Snacks, outlines why the UK firm is proposing the closure of its Corby and Consett plants, moves that will see 186 jobs put at risk.
“Consumers can be reassured that every squeeze of Heinz Tomato Ketchup 50% Less Sugars contains the unmistakable taste of Heinz and a third of a tomato,” – Heinz UK senior brand manager Katherine Broadley assures consumers the company’s new ketchup – which contains stevia – still tastes just as good as regular sauce.
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