In this Monday, May 22, 2017, photo, cans of Campbell's soup are displayed at a supermarket in Englewood, N.J. Campbell Soup announced Monday, Dec. 18, 2017, that it will spend $4.87 billion in cash for Snyder's-Lance, gorging on a snack market that has grown increasingly competitive. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
The Associated Press
NEW YORK (AP) - Campbell Soup will spend $4.87 billion in cash for Snyder's-Lance, gorging on a snack market that has grown increasingly competitive.
The soup maker said Monday that the acquisition will allow it to expand its distribution channels in the crowded field.
Campbell Soup Co., based in Camden, New Jersey, is paying $50 per share, a 6.8 percent premium to Snyder's-Lance's closing price Friday. That's about a 27 percent premium to the stock's close last Wednesday, just before rumors of a deal began to circulate.
Snyder's-Lance, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, makes pretzels and chips. Its most well-known brands include Snyder's of Hanover, Kettle Brand and Pop Secret. It will join the Campbell's division that makes Pepperidge Farm and Goldfish crackers.
The Snyder's-Lance purchase marks Campbell's sixth and largest acquisition over the last five years. It bought beverage-maker Bolthouse Farms in 2012, baby food company Plum and biscuit company Kelsen in 2013, hummus and salsa maker Garden Fresh in 2015, and soup maker Pacific Foods in 2017.
In midday trading, Campbell Soup shares added 36 cents to $49.95. Snyder's-Lance gained $3.10, or 6.6 percent, to $49.89.
FILE - This Tuesday, July 12, 2011, file photo shows packages of Pepperidge Farm Goldfish-shaped crustless bread at the company store at Campbell Soup Co. headquarters in Camden, N.J. Campbell Soup announced Monday, Dec. 18, 2017, that it will spend $4.87 billion in cash for Snyder's-Lance, gorging on a snack market that has grown increasingly competitive. (AP Photo/Mel Evans, File)
The Associated Press
FILE - This March 20, 2015, file photo shows crackers on the Lance Toast Chee production line at Snyder's-Lance in Charlotte, N.C. Campbell Soup announced Monday, Dec. 18, 2017, that it will spend $4.87 billion in cash for Snyder's-Lance, gorging on a snack market that has grown increasingly competitive. (John D. Simmons/The Charlotte Observer via AP, File)
The Associated Press
FILE - In this June 19, 2010 photo, people walk along inside the new building at the Campbell Soup Co. headquarters, in Camden, N.J. Campbell Soup will spend $4.87 billion in cash for Snyderâs-Lance, digging into an snack market that has grown increasingly competitive. Charlotte, North Carolina-based Snyderâs-Lance makes pretzels, chips and other snacks via popular brands including Snyderâs of Hanover, Kettle Brand and Pop Secret. (AP Photo/Mel Evans, File)
The Associated Press