One could argue that the H.J. Heinz Company (NYSE:HNZ) is American as apple pie. You argue that it’s wrong for such an iconic American institution has no business being run by Brazilians insisting that, “You don’t put ketchup/catsup on Feshoada.” (the Brazilian national dish). This would be foolish. Heinz is as international as they come claiming to have 150 number-one or number two-brands worldwide.
From it’s humble beginnings when its slogan proclaiming”57 varieties”, was introduced by Henry J. Heinz in 1896. This was a completely fictitious number that Heinz believed had, apparently, magic principles. That “57” imbued “psychological influence of that figure and of its enduring significance to people of all ages.” This number also came to be after Henry saw an advertisement of a shoe store in New York City that boasted “21 styles.”
Well Henry the “57” worked. But H.J. Heinz Company (NYSE:HNZ) presently manufactures thousands of food products in plants on six continents, and markets these products in more than 200 countries and territories and its planned deal with Berkshire Hathaway and 3G Capital will make it the largest deal in food industry history.
H.J. Heinz Company (NYSE:HNZ) is everywhere. It’s Ore-Ida label represents more than 50% of the world’s frozen potato market. A perfect compliment to its ketchup says, well, millions.
Heinz’s baked beans are a staple in the United Kingdom for better or for worst. “Beans on Toast” along with Marmite may very well be the primary reason that English cuisine has been scoffed at for decades. The examples are numerous. In Italy, its Plasmon line is the largest manufacturer of baby food.
According to USA Today, in an article today, H.J. Heinz Company (NYSE:HNZ) has finally scheduled a shareholder vote on the Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK.A) (NYSE:BRK.B)/3G Capital buyout. The vote, to be held on April 30th, will ask shareholders to accept a per share buyout of $72.50. Outstanding shares in Heinz will make the deal worth $23.3 billion and the inclusion of the company’s debt will see that number rise to $28 billion.
Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:BRK.A) (NYSE:BRK.B), based in Omaha, will pony up $12.12 billion in return for half of the equity in Heinz, as well as $8 billion of preferred shares that pay 9% annually. As mentioned above, 3G Capital will run the company day to day.
