Kraft Heinz to split into two companies in growth push

[CHICAGO] Kraft Heinz said on Tuesday (Sep 2) it would split into two publicly-listed companies, one focusing on the sauces business and the other on groceries, as the US packaged goods maker aims to revive growth after years of muted sales.

The one, called the “Global Taste Elevation Co,” houses brands such as Heinz, Philadelphia and Kraft Mac & Cheese, while the other, called “North American Grocery Co,” consists of Oscar Mayer, Kraft Singles and Lunchables labels.

The sauces unit raked in about US$15.4 billion in sales in 2024, while the grocery business generated about US$10.4 billion in sales.

“Kraft Heinz’s brands are iconic and beloved, but the complexity of our current structure makes it challenging to allocate capital effectively, prioritise initiatives and drive scale in our most promising areas,” said Miguel Patricio, executive chair of the Kraft Heinz board said.

The company expects the tax-free spinoff to close in the second half of 2026.

Kraft Heinz said in May it was looking at opportunities for mergers and acquisitions to shore up shareholder value. It has been struggling like other packaged food companies as consumers shop for healthier and more affordable condiments and snacks.

The company’s shares were up about 1 per cent in premarket trading. The stock has lost about 21 per cent of its value over the past twelve months. REUTERS