CAMDEN, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sept. 22, 2008–Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) today announced plans to invest in its Maxton, North Carolina manufacturing facility by adding state-of-the-art soup production equipment. The multi-million dollar investment in Maxton will enable Campbell to produce ready-to-serve soups and broths packaged in cartons. In addition to the new equipment, the investment will increase the size of the facility by 4,000 square feet.
Campbell began operating its Maxton facility in Robeson County in 1978. The company currently produces its new “Campbell’s Select Harvest” soups, “Campbell’s Chunky” soups, “Campbell’s Healthy Request” soups and “Swanson” broth at the 1.8-million-square-foot facility. Campbell employs approximately 800 people at Maxton.
Campbell expects to create 50 new full-time jobs in Maxton over a three-year period as a result of the expansion. The expansion plan includes a $150,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund, which provides financial assistance to attract business projects that stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state.
Campbell will begin preparing for the expansion in September 2008. The project is expected to be completed in the summer of 2009.
“Maxton is an ideal location for adding this new soup line due to our highly skilled and dedicated work force and our ability to produce products efficiently,” said Mark T. Cacciatore, Campbell’s Senior Director-Operations Maxton, North Carolina facility. “With this added capacity, we will be able to meet the ongoing consumer demand for these high-quality ready-to-serve soups and broths. The cooperation of the state and county government officials also contributed to our decision to expand in Maxton.”
In 2005, Campbell added a microwaveable bowl line at Maxton. In 2007, Campbell broke ground for the addition of a 225,000 square foot warehouse.
About Campbell Soup Company
Campbell Soup Company is a global manufacturer and marketer of high-quality foods and simple meals, including soup, baked snacks, and vegetable-based beverages. Founded in 1869, the company has a portfolio of market-leading brands, including “Campbell’s,” “Pepperidge Farm,” “Arnott’s,” and “V8.” For more information on the company, visit Campbell’s website at www.campbellsoup.com.
CONTACT: Campbell Soup Company Anthony Sanzio (Media) 856-968-4390 or Leonard F. Griehs (Analysts) 856-342-6428 SOURCE: Campbell Soup Company