Kraft Heinz Company has announced the appointment of Debby Soo, CEO of OpenTable, to its board of Directors, effective immediately.
This move signals Kraft Heinz’s commitment to integrating technological innovation into its strategic framework amid a rapidly evolving food and beverage landscape.
Soo brings over a decade of experience in technology transformation and public company leadership, having previously held significant roles at Kayak, including chief commercial officer.
Miguel Patricio, chair of the board, said: “Debby brings extensive experience in technology development and global business strategy, having worked with some of the most impactful global technology organisations”.
This expertise is particularly relevant as Kraft Heinz implements its AgileScale framework, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and responsiveness.
Carlos Abrams-Rivera, CEO of Kraft Heinz, added: “Debby will be a tremendous asset to the Board in its oversight of the Company’s long-term growth strategy”.
Soo’s experience extends beyond her role at OpenTable; she has also served on the board of directors of EverCommerce since 2021. Her insights into technology’s role in the food and beverage sector are expected to inform Kraft Heinz’s approach to leveraging digital tools to enhance consumer engagement and operational performance.
In her statement regarding the appointment, Soo emphasised her commitment to driving innovation and sustainable growth within Kraft Heinz.
“My experience at OpenTable, working in close partnership with chefs and restaurateurs, gives me a unique perspective on technology in the food and beverage industry,” she said. This perspective aligns with Kraft Heinz’s goal of fostering a culture of innovation while maintaining its legacy of iconic brands.
Kraft Heinz, which reported approximately $27 billion in net sales for 2023, is actively pursuing initiatives to modernise its business practices and strengthen its market position.
Source: foodbev.com
Sweden-based AAK is selling its US foodservice facility in Hillside, New Jersey, to Stratas Foods, which supplies fats, oils, mayonnaise, dressings and sauces to the foodservice, food ingredients and retail private label markets in North America.
The deal enhances Paulig’s flavour expertise with Panesar’s manufacturing and product innovation capabilities, enabling faster product launches. With this move, both companies aim to strengthen their positions in World Foods through complementary market reach and product lines.
Investment holding company JAB has agreed to acquire Mondelez’s 86 million shares in JDE Peet’s for €25.10 (US$32.72) per share. Additionally, JAB has distributed shares of JDE Peet’s to more than 70 limited partners of JAB Consumer Partners (JCP), significantly increasing the free float of JDE Peet’s.