Unilever Combines Canadian Consumer Business

Unilever Canada Limited announced yesterday its plans to combine its three largest consumer businesses – Lever Pond's, Lipton and Good Humor-Breyers – into a single operating company, to be called Unilever Canada.

Key initiatives will include the consolidation of the Lever Pond's and Lipton sales forces into one and the consolidation of company-wide financial, administrative and human resources functions. Over time, these functions from Good Humor-Breyers will be included in the consolidation as well.

"We are convinced that our proposed combination is the right thing to do in today's rapidly consolidating marketplace. It will benefit our retail trade partners, who will find it easier to do business with us. And it will also benefit Canadian consumers, as it will create a company focused on growth through innovation," said Kevin Boyce, who will serve as Unilever Canada's new president and CEO. He will replace Lawrence Strong, current president and CEO of Unilever Canada Limited, who is scheduled to retire June 1.

Unilever is one of the world's largest consumer products companies. In Canada, it is best known by brands such as becel margarine, Lipton, Red Rose Tea, Breyer's, Popsicle, Sunlight Laundry Detergent, Dove and Thermasilk.

Edited by Pam Ahlberg