Campbell's Chief Looks for Splash of Innovation†

Conant Plans New Line of Light Soups and a Move Into Markets in Russia and China

Wall Street Journal, May 30, 2008 — When Douglas Conant became CEO of Campbell Soup Co. seven years ago, naysayers bet against him being able to revive soup with today's busy and health-conscious consumers. Mr. Conant proved them wrong after remaking the company's condensed soups, introducing soup in microwavable containers, revamping marketing and redesigning shelving systems in supermarket soup aisles.

Campbell CEO Douglas Conant is launching new soup lines next year.

Now, Mr. Conant, 56 years old, has more proving to do. Campbell, which also makes Pepperidge Farm foods and V8 beverages, is struggling with high ingredient and energy costs as well as a competitor that beat it to market with a successful new product.