Davis Polk is advising Tyson Foods, Inc. on its $6.8 billion proposal to acquire The Hillshire Brands Company. The proposal is subject to the termination of Hillshire’s merger agreement with Pinnacle Foods Inc.
Tyson Foods, with headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world’s largest processors and marketers of chicken, beef and pork. Hillshire Brands is a leader in branded foods with a portfolio that includes iconic brands such as Jimmy Dean, Ball Park, Hillshire Farm, State Fair, Sara Lee frozen bakery and Chef Pierre pies, as well as artisanal brands Aidells, Gallo Salame and Golden Island Jerky.
The Davis Polk corporate team includes partners George R. Bason Jr., Richard D. Truesdell Jr. and Marc O. Williams, associate Harold Birnbaum and law clerk Andrew D. Krause. Partner Joseph P. Hadley and associate Yitz Segal are providing credit advice. Partner Ronan P. Harty is providing antitrust and competition advice. Partner Edmond T. FitzGerald is providing executive compensation advice. Partner Neil Barr is providing tax advice. All members of the Davis Polk team are based in the New York office.
