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EX-31.A - EXHIBIT 31.A - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-512016xexb31a.htm








UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-Q
_______________________________________________________________________________
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Quarterly Period Ended
May 1, 2016
Commission File Number
1-3822

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY 
New Jersey
21-0419870
State of Incorporation
I.R.S. Employer Identification No.

1 Campbell Place
Camden, New Jersey 08103-1799
Principal Executive Offices

Telephone Number: (856) 342-4800


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. o Yes þ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Date File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). o Yes þ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act
Large accelerated filer þ
Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o
(Do not check if a smaller  reporting company)
Smaller reporting company o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). o Yes þ No

There were 308,647,031 shares of capital stock outstanding as of June 1, 2016.
 








TABLE OF CONTENTS



2






PART I

Item 1. Financial Information
CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
(unaudited)
(millions, except per share amounts)
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
Net sales
$
1,870

 
$
1,900

 
$
6,274

 
$
6,389

Costs and expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of products sold
1,210

 
1,218

 
4,040

 
4,169

Marketing and selling expenses
228

 
213

 
677

 
695

Administrative expenses
154

 
142

 
456

 
408

Research and development expenses
31

 
30

 
86

 
83

Other expenses / (income)
(23
)
 
3

 
(14
)
 
14

Restructuring charges
2

 
9

 
32

 
9

Total costs and expenses
1,602

 
1,615

 
5,277

 
5,378

Earnings before interest and taxes
268

 
285

 
997

 
1,011

Interest expense
29

 
29

 
86

 
81

Interest income
1

 
1

 
3

 
3

Earnings before taxes
240

 
257

 
914

 
933

Taxes on earnings
55

 
78

 
270

 
284

Net earnings
185

 
179

 
644

 
649

Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
185

 
$
179

 
$
644

 
$
649

Per Share — Basic
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
.60

 
$
.58

 
$
2.08

 
$
2.07

Dividends
$
.312

 
$
.312

 
$
.936

 
$
.936

Weighted average shares outstanding — basic
309

 
311

 
309

 
313

Per Share — Assuming Dilution
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
.59

 
$
.57

 
$
2.07

 
$
2.07

Weighted average shares outstanding — assuming dilution
311

 
312

 
311

 
314

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



3






CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(unaudited)
(millions)
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
Pre-tax amount
 
Tax (expense) benefit
 
After-tax amount
 
Pre-tax amount
 
Tax (expense) benefit
 
After-tax amount
Net earnings
 
 
 
 
$
185

 
 
 
 
 
$
179

Other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
$
101

 
$
(1
)
 
100

 
$
9

 
$

 
9

Cash-flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period
(25
)
 
7

 
(18
)
 
12

 
(5
)
 
7

Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings
(3
)
 
1

 
(2
)
 
(1
)
 

 
(1
)
Pension and other postretirement benefits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Reclassification of prior service credit included in net earnings
(1
)
 

 
(1
)
 
(1
)
 

 
(1
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
$
72

 
$
7

 
79

 
$
19

 
$
(5
)
 
14

Total comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
$
264

 
 
 
 
 
$
193

Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 

Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Campbell Soup Company
 
 
 
 
$
264

 
 
 
 
 
$
193

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
Pre-tax amount
 
Tax (expense) benefit
 
After-tax amount
 
Pre-tax amount
 
Tax (expense) benefit
 
After-tax amount
Net earnings
 
 
 
 
$
644

 
 
 
 
 
$
649

Other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
$
58

 
$

 
58

 
$
(229
)
 
$
1

 
(228
)
Cash-flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized gains (losses) arising during period
(35
)
 
11

 
(24
)
 
(21
)
 
8

 
(13
)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings
(9
)
 
3

 
(6
)
 

 

 

Pension and other postretirement benefits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Reclassification of prior service credit included in net earnings
(2
)
 

 
(2
)
 
(2
)
 

 
(2
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
$
12

 
$
14

 
26

 
$
(252
)
 
$
9

 
(243
)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
$
670

 
 
 
 
 
$
406

Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
2

 
 
 
 
 

Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Campbell Soup Company
 
 
 
 
$
668

 
 
 
 
 
$
406

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

4






CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(unaudited)
(millions, except per share amounts)
 
May 1,
2016
 
August 2,
2015
Current assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
383

 
$
253

Accounts receivable, net
648

 
647

Inventories
829

 
995

Other current assets
182

 
198

Total current assets
2,042

 
2,093

Plant assets, net of depreciation
2,371

 
2,347

Goodwill
2,377

 
2,344

Other intangible assets, net of amortization
1,197

 
1,205

Other assets ($28 and $0 attributable to variable interest entity)
94

 
101

Total assets
$
8,081

 
$
8,090

Current liabilities
 
 
 
Short-term borrowings
$
1,134

 
$
1,543

Payable to suppliers and others
487

 
544

Accrued liabilities
602

 
589

Dividend payable
100

 
101

Accrued income taxes
54

 
29

Total current liabilities
2,377

 
2,806

Long-term debt
2,552

 
2,552

Deferred taxes
485

 
505

Other liabilities
993

 
850

Total liabilities
6,407

 
6,713

Commitments and contingencies

 

Campbell Soup Company shareholders' equity
 
 
 
Preferred stock; authorized 40 shares; none issued

 

Capital stock, $.0375 par value; authorized 560 shares; issued 323 shares
12

 
12

Additional paid-in capital
342

 
339

Earnings retained in the business
2,105

 
1,754

Capital stock in treasury, at cost
(639
)
 
(556
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(144
)
 
(168
)
Total Campbell Soup Company shareholders' equity
1,676

 
1,381

Noncontrolling interests
(2
)
 
(4
)
Total equity
1,674

 
1,377

Total liabilities and equity
$
8,081

 
$
8,090

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


5






CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(unaudited)
(millions)
 
Nine Months Ended
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net earnings
$
644

 
$
649

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to operating cash flow
 
 
 
Restructuring charges
32

 
9

Stock-based compensation
50

 
46

Pension and postretirement benefit expense
167

 
9

Depreciation and amortization
228

 
223

Deferred income taxes
4

 
28

Other, net
2

 
15

Changes in working capital
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
5

 
19

Inventories
172

 
109

Prepaid assets
7

 
11

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
(87
)
 
(110
)
Receipts from hedging activities
5

 
11

Other
(46
)
 
(48
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
1,183

 
971

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Purchases of plant assets
(225
)
 
(242
)
Sales of plant assets
5

 
9

Other, net
(14
)
 
(7
)
Net cash used in investing activities
(234
)
 
(240
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Net short-term repayments
(425
)
 
(233
)
Long-term borrowings

 
300

Repayments of notes payable

 
(300
)
Dividends paid
(294
)
 
(297
)
Treasury stock purchases
(118
)
 
(192
)
Treasury stock issuances
2

 
9

Excess tax benefits on stock-based compensation
7

 
5

Other, net

 
(3
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(828
)
 
(711
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
9

 
(22
)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
130

 
(2
)
Cash and cash equivalents — beginning of period
253

 
232

Cash and cash equivalents — end of period
$
383

 
$
230

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

6






CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Equity
(unaudited)
(millions, except per share amounts)
 
Campbell Soup Company Shareholders’ Equity
 
 
 
 
 
Capital Stock
 
Additional Paid-in
Capital
 
Earnings Retained in the
Business
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
 
 
Issued
 
In Treasury
 
 
 
 
 
Total
Equity
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at August 3, 2014
323

 
$
12

 
(10
)
 
$
(356
)
 
$
330

 
$
1,483

 
$
145

 
$
(12
)
 
$
1,602

Net earnings (loss)

 

 

 

 

 
649

 

 

 
649

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 
(243
)
 

 
(243
)
Dividends ($.936 per share)

 

 

 

 

 
(295
)
 

 

 
(295
)
Treasury stock purchased

 

 
(4
)
 
(192
)
 

 

 

 

 
(192
)
Treasury stock issued under management incentive and stock option plans
 
 
 
 
2

 
41

 
1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
42

Balance at May 3, 2015
323

 
$
12

 
(12
)
 
$
(507
)
 
$
331

 
$
1,837

 
$
(98
)
 
$
(12
)
 
$
1,563

Balance at August 2, 2015
323

 
$
12

 
(13
)
 
$
(556
)
 
$
339

 
$
1,754

 
$
(168
)
 
$
(4
)
 
$
1,377

Net earnings (loss)

 

 

 

 

 
644

 

 

 
644

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 
24

 
2

 
26

Dividends ($.936 per share)

 

 

 

 

 
(293
)
 

 

 
(293
)
Treasury stock purchased

 

 
(2
)
 
(118
)
 

 

 

 

 
(118
)
Treasury stock issued under management incentive and stock option plans


 


 
1

 
35

 
3

 


 


 

 
38

Balance at May 1, 2016
323

 
$
12

 
(14
)
 
$
(639
)
 
$
342

 
$
2,105

 
$
(144
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
1,674

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

7






Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(currency in millions, except per share amounts)
1.
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies
In this Form 10-Q, unless otherwise stated, the terms “we,” “us,” “our” and the “company” refer to Campbell Soup Company and its consolidated subsidiaries.
The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and entities in which we maintain a controlling financial interest and a variable interest entity (VIE) for which we are the primary beneficiary. Intercompany transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
The financial statements reflect all adjustments which are, in our opinion, necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations, financial position, and cash flows for the indicated periods. The accounting policies we used in preparing these financial statements are substantially consistent with those we applied in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 2, 2015, with the exception of the changes in accounting policy related to our method of accounting for the recognition of actuarial gains and losses for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans and the calculation of expected return on pension plan assets as described below. As of the beginning of 2016, we are managing our operations under a new structure and have modified our segment reporting accordingly. Certain amounts in prior-year financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current-year presentation. The results for the period are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for other interim periods or the full year. Our fiscal year ends on the Sunday nearest July 31.
In 2016, we elected to change our method of accounting for the recognition of actuarial gains and losses for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans and the calculation of expected return on pension plan assets. Historically, actuarial gains and losses associated with benefit obligations were recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and were amortized into earnings over the remaining service life of participants to the extent that the amounts were in excess of a corridor. Under the new policy, actuarial gains and losses will be recognized immediately in our Consolidated Statements of Earnings as of the measurement date, which is our fiscal year end, or more frequently if an interim remeasurement is required. In addition, we no longer use a market-related value of plan assets, which is an average value, to determine the expected return on assets but rather will use the fair value of plan assets. We believe the new policies will provide greater transparency to ongoing operating results and better reflect the impact of current market conditions on the obligations and assets.
The changes in policy were applied retrospectively to all periods presented. As of August 4, 2014, the cumulative effect of these changes on the opening balance sheet was a $715 decrease to Earnings retained in the business, a decrease of $2 to Inventories, a $714 reduction to Accumulated other comprehensive loss, and an increase of $1 to Other current assets.
In 2016 and 2015, we recognized mark-to-market losses as certain U.S. plans were remeasured. In 2016, the remeasurements were required due to a high level of lump sum payments to certain vested plan participants arising primarily out of a limited-time offer to accept a single lump sum in lieu of future annuity payments. In the third quarter of 2016, we recognized mark-to-market losses of $54 ($34 after tax, or $.11 per share). Year-to-date, we recognized mark-to-market losses of $175 ($110 after tax, or $.35 per share). In 2015, the remeasurements were required due to the impact of a voluntary employee separation program. In the third quarter and year-to-date period of 2015, we recognized losses of $26 ($16 after tax, or $.05 per share).

8






The impacts of the changes in policy to the consolidated financial statements are summarized below:
 
 
Three months ended May 1, 2016
 
Three months ended May 3, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
 
Prior Accounting Principles
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
As Reported
 
Previously Reported
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
Recast
Cost of products sold
 
$
1,195

 
$
15

 
$
1,210

 
$
1,218

 
$

 
$
1,218

Marketing and selling expenses
 
223

 
5

 
228

 
213

 

 
213

Administrative expenses
 
151

 
3

 
154

 
141

 
1

 
142

Research and development expenses
 
30

 
1

 
31

 
29

 
1

 
30

Earnings before interest and taxes
 
292

 
(24
)
 
268

 
287

 
(2
)
 
285

Earnings before taxes
 
264

 
(24
)
 
240

 
259

 
(2
)
 
257

Taxes on earnings
 
63

 
(8
)
 
55

 
77

 
1

 
78

Net earnings
 
201

 
(16
)
 
185

 
182

 
(3
)
 
179

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
 
$
201

 
$
(16
)
 
$
185

 
$
182

 
$
(3
)
 
$
179

Earnings per share — Basic
 
$
.65

 
$
(.05
)
 
$
.60

 
$
.59

 
$
(.01
)
 
$
.58

Earnings per share — Diluted (1)
 
$
.65

 
$
(.05
)
 
$
.59

 
$
.58

 
$
(.01
)
 
$
.57

 
 
Nine months ended May 1, 2016
 
Nine months ended May 3, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
 
Prior Accounting Principles
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
As Reported
 
Previously Reported
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
Recast
Cost of products sold
 
$
4,011

 
$
29

 
$
4,040

 
$
4,196

 
$
(27
)
 
$
4,169

Marketing and selling expenses
 
672

 
5

 
677

 
702

 
(7
)
 
695

Administrative expenses
 
454

 
2

 
456

 
416

 
(8
)
 
408

Research and development expenses
 
85

 
1

 
86

 
85

 
(2
)
 
83

Earnings before interest and taxes
 
1,034

 
(37
)
 
997

 
967

 
44

 
1,011

Earnings before taxes
 
951

 
(37
)
 
914

 
889

 
44

 
933

Taxes on earnings
 
281

 
(11
)
 
270

 
266

 
18

 
284

Net earnings
 
670

 
(26
)
 
644

 
623

 
26

 
649

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
 
$
670

 
$
(26
)
 
$
644

 
$
623

 
$
26

 
$
649

Earnings per share - Basic (1)
 
$
2.17

 
$
(.08
)
 
$
2.08

 
$
1.99

 
$
.08

 
$
2.07

Earnings per share - Diluted (1)
 
$
2.15

 
$
(.08
)
 
$
2.07

 
$
1.98

 
$
.08

 
$
2.07

________________________________________________________ 
(1) The sum of the individual per share amounts may not add due to rounding.
 
 
Three months ended May 1, 2016
 
Three months ended May 3, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
 
Prior Accounting Principles
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
As Reported
 
Previously Reported
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
Recast
Foreign currency translation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
$
101

 
$

 
$
101

 
$
12

 
$
(3
)
 
$
9

Pension and other postretirement benefits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Net actuarial gain (loss) arising during the period
 
(68
)
 
68

 

 
(4
)
 
4

 

Reclassification of net actuarial loss included in net earnings
 
35

 
(35
)
 

 
24

 
(24
)
 

Tax benefit / (expense)
 
$
12

 
$
(12
)
 
$

 
$
(7
)
 
$
7

 
$


9






 
 
Nine months ended May 1, 2016
 
Nine months ended May 3, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
 
Prior Accounting Principles
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
As Reported
 
Previously Reported
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
Recast
Foreign currency translation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
$
58

 
$

 
$
58

 
$
(238
)
 
$
9

 
$
(229
)
Pension and other postretirement benefits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial gain (loss) arising during the period
 
(181
)
 
181

 

 
13

 
(13
)
 

Reclassification of net actuarial loss included in net earnings
 
144

 
(144
)
 

 
72

 
(72
)
 

Tax benefit / (expense)
 
$
14

 
$
(14
)
 
$

 
$
(29
)
 
$
29

 
$

 
 
May 1, 2016
 
August 2, 2015
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
Prior Accounting Principles
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
As Reported
 
Previously Reported
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
Recast
Inventories
 
$
827

 
$
2

 
$
829

 
$
993

 
$
2

 
$
995

Other current assets
 
183

 
(1
)
 
182

 
199

 
(1
)
 
198

Accrued income taxes
 
51

 
3

 
54

 
29

 

 
29

Earnings retained in the business
 
2,871

 
(766
)
 
2,105

 
2,494

 
(740
)
 
1,754

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
 
$
(908
)
 
$
764

 
$
(144
)
 
$
(909
)
 
$
741

 
$
(168
)
 
 
Nine months ended May 1, 2016
 
Nine months ended May 3, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
 
Prior Accounting Principles
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
As Reported
 
Previously Reported
 
Effect of Accounting Change
 
Recast
Cash flow from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Net earnings
 
$
670

 
$
(26
)
 
$
644

 
$
623

 
$
26

 
$
649

Pension and postretirement benefit expense / (income)
 

 
167

 
167

 

 
9

 
9

Deferred income taxes
 
18

 
(14
)
 
4

 
12

 
16

 
28

Other, net
 
132

 
(130
)
 
2

 
69

 
(54
)
 
15

Inventories
 
172

 

 
172

 
108

 
1

 
109

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
 
(90
)
 
3

 
(87
)
 
(112
)
 
2

 
(110
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
$
1,183

 
$

 
$
1,183

 
$
971

 
$

 
$
971

2.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued revised guidance on the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance is designed to create greater comparability for financial statement users across industries and jurisdictions. The guidance also requires enhanced disclosures. The guidance was originally effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016. In July 2015, the FASB decided to delay the effective date of the new revenue guidance by one year to fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Entities will be permitted to adopt the new revenue standard early, but not before the original effective date. The guidance permits the use of either a full retrospective or modified retrospective transition method. We are currently evaluating the impact that the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements, as well as which transition method we will use.
In April 2015, the FASB issued guidance that requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a reduction from the carrying value of the associated debt liability, consistent with the presentation of a debt discount. The guidance must be applied on a retrospective basis and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect the adoption to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In April 2015, the FASB issued guidance to clarify the accounting for fees paid by a customer in a cloud computing arrangement. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those years. Early

10






adoption is permitted. The new guidance should be applied either prospectively to all arrangements entered into or materially modified after the effective date or retrospectively. We will adopt the guidance prospectively. We do not expect the adoption to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In September 2015, the FASB issued guidance that eliminates the requirement to restate prior period financial statements for measurement period adjustments for business combinations. The new guidance requires that the cumulative impact of a measurement period adjustment (including the impact on prior periods) be recognized in the reporting period in which the adjustment is identified. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those years and should be applied prospectively to measurement period adjustments that occur after the effective date. We will prospectively apply the guidance to applicable transactions.
In November 2015, the FASB issued guidance that amends the balance sheet classification of deferred taxes. The new guidance requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. Previous guidance required deferred tax liabilities and assets to be separated into current and noncurrent amounts on the balance sheet. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. As of May 1, 2016, the balance of current deferred tax assets was $104. We will adopt the guidance as of July 31, 2016.
In January 2016, the FASB issued guidance that amends the recognition and measurement of financial instruments. The changes primarily affect the accounting for equity investments, financial liabilities under the fair value option, and the presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments. Under the new guidance, equity investments in unconsolidated entities that are not accounted for under the equity method will generally be measured at fair value through earnings. When the fair value option has been elected for financial liabilities, changes in fair value due to instrument-specific credit risk will be recognized separately in other comprehensive income. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those years. We are currently evaluating the impact that the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued guidance that amends accounting for leases. Under the new guidance, a lessee will recognize assets and liabilities for most leases but will recognize expenses similar to current lease accounting. The guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. The new guidance must be adopted using a modified retrospective transition, and provides for certain practical expedients. We are currently evaluating the impact that the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued guidance that amends accounting for share-based payments, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.
3.
Acquisitions
On June 29, 2015, we completed the acquisition of the assets of Garden Fresh Gourmet for $232. Garden Fresh Gourmet is a provider of refrigerated salsa, hummus, dips and tortilla chips. It is included in the Campbell Fresh segment.
For the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, Garden Fresh Gourmet contributed $25 and $76, respectively, to Net sales. Its contribution to Net earnings was not material.
The following unaudited summary information is presented on a consolidated pro forma basis as if the Garden Fresh Gourmet acquisition had occurred on July 29, 2013:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
May 3, 2015
 
May 3, 2015
Net sales
$
1,925

 
$
6,462

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
180

 
$
651

Net earnings per share attributable to Campbell Soup Company - assuming dilution
$
.58

 
$
2.07

The pro forma amounts include additional interest expense on the debt issued to finance the purchase, amortization and depreciation expense based on the estimated fair value and useful lives of intangible assets and plant assets, and related tax effects. The pro forma results are not necessarily indicative of the combined results had the Garden Fresh Gourmet acquisition been completed on July 29, 2013, nor are they indicative of future combined results.

11






4.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The components of Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of the following:
 
 
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments(1)
 
Gains (Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges(2)
 
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Adjustments(3)
 
Total Accumulated Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at August 2, 2015
 
$
(166
)
 
$
(5
)
 
$
3

 
$
(168
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
56

 
(24
)
 

 
32

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 

 
(6
)
 
(2
)
 
(8
)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)
 
56

 
(30
)
 
(2
)
 
24

Balance at May 1, 2016
 
$
(110
)
 
$
(35
)
 
$
1

 
$
(144
)
_____________________________________
(1) 
Included a tax expense of $6 as of May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015.
(2) 
Included a tax benefit of $19 as of May 1, 2016, and $5 as of August 2, 2015.
(3) 
Included a tax expense of $1 as of May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015.
Amounts related to noncontrolling interests were not material.
The amounts reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of the following:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Components
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
Location of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Earnings
(Gains) losses on cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
$
(4
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(10
)
 
$
(2
)
 
Cost of products sold
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 

 

 
(2
)
 
(1
)
 
Other expenses / (income)
Forward starting interest rate swaps
 
1

 
1

 
3

 
3

 
Interest expense
Total before tax
 
(3
)
 
(1
)
 
(9
)
 

 
 
Tax expense (benefit)
 
1

 

 
3

 

 
 
(Gain) loss, net of tax
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(6
)
 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and postretirement benefit adjustments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prior service credit
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(2
)
 
(1) 
Tax expense (benefit)
 

 

 

 

 
 
(Gain) loss, net of tax
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(2
)
 
$
(2
)
 
 
_____________________________________
(1) 
This is included in the components of net periodic benefit costs (see Note 9 for additional details).
5.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill
The following table shows the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by business segment:
 
Americas    
Simple
Meals and Beverages
 
Global
Biscuits
and
Snacks
 
Campbell Fresh
 
Total    
Balance at August 2, 2015
$
775

 
$
732

 
$
837

 
$
2,344

Foreign currency translation adjustment
4

 
29

 

 
33

Balance at May 1, 2016
$
779

 
$
761

 
$
837

 
$
2,377


12






Intangible Assets
The following table sets forth balance sheet information for intangible assets, excluding goodwill, subject to amortization and intangible assets not subject to amortization:
Intangible Assets
 
May 1,
2016
 
August 2,
2015
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Customer relationships
 
$
223

 
$
222

Technology
 
40

 
40

Other
 
35

 
35

Total gross amortizable intangible assets
 
$
298

 
$
297

Accumulated amortization
 
(67
)
 
(52
)
Total net amortizable intangible assets
 
$
231

 
$
245

Non-amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Trademarks
 
966

 
960

Total net intangible assets
 
$
1,197

 
$
1,205

Non-amortizable intangible assets consist of trademarks, which include Bolthouse Farms, Pace, Plum, Kjeldsens, Garden Fresh Gourmet and Royal Dansk. Other amortizable intangible assets consist of recipes, patents, trademarks and distributor relationships.
Amortization of intangible assets was $15 and $13 for the nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, respectively. Amortization expense for the next 5 years is estimated to be $20 in the fiscal periods 2016 and 2017, and $15 in 2018 through 2020. Asset useful lives range from 5 to 20 years.
6.
Business and Geographic Segment Information
Through the fourth quarter of 2015, we reported the results of our operations in the following reportable segments: U.S. Simple Meals; Global Baking and Snacking; International Simple Meals and Beverages; U.S. Beverages; and Bolthouse and Foodservice. As of the beginning of 2016, we are managing our businesses in three divisions focused mainly on product categories. The new divisions, which represent our operating and reportable segments, are as follows:
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages segment includes the retail and food service channel businesses in the U.S., Canada and Latin America. The segment includes the following products: Campbell’s condensed and ready-to-serve soups; Swanson broth and stocks; Prego pasta sauces; Pace Mexican sauces; Campbell’s gravies, pasta, beans and dinner sauces; Swanson canned poultry; Plum food and snacks; V8 juices and beverages; and Campbell’s tomato juice.
Global Biscuits and Snacks segment includes Pepperidge Farm cookies, crackers, bakery and frozen products in U.S. retail; Arnott’s biscuits in Australia and Asia Pacific; and Kelsen cookies globally. The segment also includes the simple meals and shelf-stable beverages business in Australia and Asia Pacific.
Campbell Fresh includes Bolthouse Farms fresh carrots, carrot ingredients, refrigerated beverages and refrigerated salad dressings; Garden Fresh Gourmet salsa, hummus, dips and tortilla chips, which was acquired in June 2015; and the U.S. refrigerated soup business.
We evaluate segment performance before interest, taxes and costs associated with restructuring activities. Unrealized gains and losses on commodity hedging activities are excluded from segment operating earnings and are recorded in Corporate as these open positions represent hedges of future purchases. Upon closing of the contracts, the realized gain or loss is transferred to segment operating earnings, which allows the segments to reflect the economic effects of the hedge without exposure to quarterly volatility of unrealized gains and losses. In 2016, we elected to change our method of accounting for the recognition of actuarial gains and losses for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans and the calculation of expected return on pension plan assets as discussed in Note 1. In 2016, we also modified our method of allocating pension and postretirement benefit costs to segments. Through 2015, we included all components of benefit expense in measuring segment performance. In 2016, only service cost is allocated to segments. All other components of expense, including interest cost, expected return on assets, and recognized actuarial gains and losses, are reflected in Corporate and not included in segment operating results. Asset information by segment is not discretely maintained for internal reporting or used in evaluating performance.
Segment results have been adjusted retrospectively to reflect these revisions.

13






 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
999

 
$
1,030

 
$
3,538

 
$
3,641

Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
608

 
623

 
1,942

 
2,014

Campbell Fresh
 
263

 
247

 
794

 
734

Total
 
$
1,870

 
$
1,900

 
$
6,274

 
$
6,389

 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
Earnings before interest and taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
225

 
$
223

 
$
878

 
$
765

Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
86

 
93

 
341

 
306

Campbell Fresh
 
13

 
18

 
52

 
40

Corporate(1)
 
(54
)
 
(40
)
 
(242
)
 
(91
)
Restructuring charges(2)
 
(2
)
 
(9
)
 
(32
)
 
(9
)
Total
 
$
268

 
$
285

 
$
997

 
$
1,011

_______________________________________
(1) 
Represents unallocated items. Costs of $54 and $175 related to pension mark-to-market adjustments (see Note 1 for additional information) and costs of $13 and $35 related to the implementation of our new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives (see Note 7 for additional information) were included in the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, respectively. A gain of $25 from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition was also included in the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016. Costs of $26 related to pension and postretirement mark-to-market adjustments (see Note 1 for additional information) and costs of $9 related to the implementation of our new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives (see Note 7 for additional information) were included in the three- and nine-month periods ended May 3, 2015.
(2) 
See Note 7 for additional information.
Our global net sales based on product categories are as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Soup
 
$
575

 
$
602

 
$
2,253

 
$
2,361

Baked snacks
 
584

 
587

 
1,886

 
1,919

Other simple meals
 
424

 
409

 
1,300

 
1,251

Beverages
 
287

 
302

 
835

 
858

Total
 
$
1,870

 
$
1,900

 
$
6,274

 
$
6,389

Soup includes various soup, broths and stock products. Baked snacks include cookies, crackers, biscuits and other baked products. Other simple meals include sauces, carrot products, refrigerated salad dressings, refrigerated salsa, hummus, dips and Plum foods and snacks.
7.
Restructuring Charges and Cost Savings Initiatives
2015 Initiatives
On January 29, 2015, we announced plans to implement a new enterprise design focused mainly on product categories. Under the new design, which we fully implemented at the beginning of 2016, our businesses are organized in the following divisions: Americas Simple Meals and Beverages, Global Biscuits and Snacks, and Campbell Fresh.
In support of the new enterprise design, we designed and implemented a new Integrated Global Services (IGS) organization to deliver shared services across the company. IGS, which became effective at the beginning of 2016, is expected to reduce costs

14






while increasing our efficiency and effectiveness. We also streamlined our organizational structure. We are pursuing other initiatives to reduce costs and increase effectiveness, such as adopting zero-based budgeting over time.
As part of these initiatives, we commenced a voluntary employee separation program available to certain U.S.-based salaried employees nearing retirement who met age, length-of-service and business unit/function criteria. A total of 471 employees elected the program. The electing employees remained with us through at least July 31, 2015, with some remaining beyond July 31. We also implemented an initiative to reduce overhead across the organization by eliminating approximately 245 positions. In the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, we recorded a restructuring charge of $2 and $35, respectively, related to these initiatives. In 2015, we recorded a restructuring charge of $102 related to these initiatives. Of the amounts recorded in 2015, $9 was recorded in the nine-month period ended May 3, 2015.
In the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, we also incurred charges of $13 and $35, respectively, recorded in Administrative expenses related to the implementation of the new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives. In 2015, we incurred charges of $22 recorded in Administrative expenses related to the these initiatives. Of the amounts recorded in 2015, $9 was recorded in the nine-month period ended May 3, 2015.
In the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, the aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs recorded was $9, or $.03 per share, and $44, or $.14 per share, respectively. In the three- and nine-month periods ended May 3, 2015, the aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges and implementation costs was $11, or $.04 per share. The aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges and implementation and other costs recorded in 2015 was $78, or $.25 per share. A summary of the pre-tax costs associated with the 2015 initiatives is as follows:
 
Recognized
as of
May 1, 2016
Severance pay and benefits
$
128

Implementation costs and other related costs
66

Total
$
194

The total estimated pre-tax costs for the 2015 initiatives are approximately $250 to $325. We expect to incur these costs through 2018.
We expect the costs to consist of approximately $150 to $165 in severance pay and benefits, and approximately $100 to $160 in implementation costs and other related costs.We expect the total pre-tax costs related to the 2015 initiatives will be associated with segments as follows: Americas Simple Meals and Beverages - approximately 31%; Global Biscuits and Snacks - approximately 35%; Campbell Fresh - approximately 3%; and Corporate - approximately 31%.
A summary of the restructuring activity and related reserves associated with the 2015 initiatives at May 1, 2016, is as follows:
 
Severance Pay and Benefits
 
Other Restructuring Costs
 
Implementation Costs and Other Related Costs(3)
 
Total Charges
Accrued balance at August 2, 2015(1)
$
85

 
$
8

 
 
 
 
2016 charges
34

 
1

 
35

 
$
70

2016 cash payments
(31
)
 
(9
)
 
 
 
 
Accrued balance at May 1, 2016(2)
$
88

 
$

 
 
 
 
______________________________________
(1) 
Includes $45 of severance pay and benefits recorded in Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
(2) 
Includes $37 of severance pay and benefits recorded in Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
(3)  
Includes other costs recognized as incurred that are not reflected in the restructuring reserve in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The costs are included in Administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

15






Segment operating results do not include restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs because we evaluate segment performance excluding such charges. A summary of the pre-tax costs associated with segments is as follows:
 
May 1, 2016
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
Costs Incurred to Date
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
1

 
$
17

 
$
71

Global Biscuits and Snacks
3

 
23

 
67

Campbell Fresh

 

 
1

Corporate
11

 
30

 
55

Total
$
15

 
$
70

 
$
194

2014 Initiatives
In the nine-month period ended May 1, 2016, we recorded a reduction to restructuring charges of $3 ($2 after tax, or $.01 per share) related to the fiscal 2014 initiative to improve supply chain efficiency in Australia. As of January 31, 2016, we incurred substantially all of the costs related to the 2014 initiatives.
A summary of the pre-tax costs associated with the 2014 initiatives is as follows:
 
Total Program(1)
 
Change in Estimate
 
Recognized as of May 1, 2016
Severance pay and benefits
$
41

 
$
(3
)
 
$
38

Asset impairment
12

 

 
12

Other exit costs
1

 

 
1

Total
$
54

 
$
(3
)
 
$
51

______________________________________
(1) 
Recognized as of August 2, 2015.
8.
Earnings per Share
For the periods presented in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings, the calculations of basic EPS and EPS assuming dilution vary in that the weighted average shares outstanding assuming dilution include the incremental effect of stock options and other share-based payment awards, except when such effect would be antidilutive. There were no antidilutive stock options for the three-month period ended May 1, 2016. The earnings per share calculation for the nine-month period ended May 1, 2016, excludes 474 thousand stock options that would have been antidilutive. There were no antidilutive stock options for the three- and nine-month periods ended May 3, 2015.
9.
Pension and Postretirement Benefits
We sponsor certain defined benefit pension and postretirement plans for employees. In 2016, we elected to change our method of accounting for the recognition of actuarial gains and losses for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans and the calculation of expected return on pension plan assets. Historically, actuarial gains and losses associated with benefit obligations were recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and were amortized into earnings over the remaining service life of participants to the extent that the amounts were in excess of a corridor. Under the new policy, gains and losses will be recognized immediately in our Consolidated Statements of Earnings as of the measurement date, which is our fiscal year end, or more frequently if an interim remeasurement is required. In addition, we no longer use a market-related value of plan assets, which is an average value, to determine the expected return on assets but rather will use the fair value of plan assets. We believe the new policies will provide greater transparency to ongoing operating results and better reflect the impact of current market conditions on the obligations and assets.
The changes in policy were applied retrospectively to all periods presented. See Note 1 for additional information on the change in accounting method.

16






Components of net benefit expense (income) were as follows:
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
Pension
 
Postretirement
 
Pension
 
Postretirement
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
Service cost
$
6

 
$
8

 
$

 
$
1

 
$
20

 
$
22

 
$
1

 
$
2

Interest cost
24

 
26

 
4

 
3

 
74

 
79

 
12

 
11

Expected return on plan assets
(36
)
 
(43
)
 

 

 
(111
)
 
(130
)
 

 

Amortization of prior service costs
(1
)
 
(1
)
 

 

 
(1
)
 
(1
)
 
(1
)
 
(1
)
Recognized net actuarial (gain)/loss
61

 
5

 

 
22

 
173

 
5

 

 
22

Curtailment loss

 
1

 

 
6

 

 
1

 

 
6

Net periodic benefit expense (income)
$
54

 
$
(4
)
 
$
4

 
$
32

 
$
155

 
$
(24
)
 
$
12

 
$
40

The recognized net actuarial loss in 2016 resulted from the quarterly remeasurement of certain U.S. plans. The remeasurement was required due to a high level of lump sum payments to certain vested plan participants arising primarily out of a limited-time offer to accept a single lump sum in lieu of future annuity payments. The curtailment loss and recognized net actuarial loss in 2015 were related to a voluntary employee separation program. The curtailment loss was included in Restructuring charges. See also Note 7.
We do not expect contributions to pension plans to be material in 2016.
10.
Financial Instruments
The principal market risks to which we are exposed are changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and commodity prices. In addition, we are exposed to equity price changes related to certain deferred compensation obligations. In order to manage these exposures, we follow established risk management policies and procedures, including the use of derivative contracts such as swaps, options, forwards and commodity futures. We enter into these derivative contracts for periods consistent with the related underlying exposures, and the contracts do not constitute positions independent of those exposures. We do not enter into derivative contracts for speculative purposes and do not use leveraged instruments. Our derivative programs include instruments that qualify and others that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment.
Concentration of Credit Risk
We are exposed to the risk that counterparties to derivative contracts will fail to meet their contractual obligations. To mitigate counterparty credit risk, we enter into contracts only with carefully selected, leading, credit-worthy financial institutions, and distribute contracts among several financial institutions to reduce the concentration of credit risk. We do not have credit-risk-related contingent features in our derivative instruments as of May 1, 2016.
We are also exposed to credit risk from our customers. During 2015, our largest customer accounted for approximately 20% of consolidated net sales.
We closely monitor credit risk associated with counterparties and customers.

17






Foreign Currency Exchange Risk
We are exposed to foreign currency exchange risk related to our international operations, including non-functional currency intercompany debt and net investments in subsidiaries. We are also exposed to foreign exchange risk as a result of transactions in currencies other than the functional currency of certain subsidiaries. Principal currencies hedged include the Canadian dollar, Australian dollar and U.S. dollar. We utilize foreign exchange forward purchase and sale contracts, as well as cross-currency swaps, to hedge these exposures. The contracts are either designated as cash-flow hedging instruments or are undesignated. We hedge portions of our forecasted foreign currency transaction exposure with foreign exchange forward contracts for periods typically up to 18 months. To hedge currency exposures related to intercompany debt, we enter into foreign exchange forward purchase and sale contracts, as well as cross-currency swap contracts, for periods consistent with the underlying debt. As of May 1, 2016, all existing cross-currency swap contracts will be settled by year end. The notional amount of foreign exchange forward contracts accounted for as cash-flow hedges was $71 at May 1, 2016, and $53 at August 2, 2015. The effective portion of the changes in fair value on these instruments is recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and is reclassified into the Consolidated Statements of Earnings on the same line item and the same period in which the underlying hedged transaction affects earnings. The notional amount of foreign exchange forward and cross-currency swap contracts that are not designated as accounting hedges was $464 and $480 at May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015, respectively.
Interest Rate Risk
We manage our exposure to changes in interest rates by optimizing the use of variable-rate and fixed-rate debt and by utilizing interest rate swaps in order to maintain our variable-to-total debt ratio within targeted guidelines. Receive fixed rate/pay variable rate interest rate swaps are accounted for as fair-value hedges. We manage our exposure to interest rate volatility on future debt issuances by entering into forward starting interest rate swaps to lock in the rate on the interest payments related to the anticipated debt issuances. These pay fixed rate/receive variable rate forward starting interest rate swaps are accounted for as cash-flow hedges. The effective portion of the changes in fair value on these instruments is recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and is reclassified into the Consolidated Statements of Earnings over the life of the debt. The notional amount of outstanding forward starting interest rate swaps totaled $300 at May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015, which relates to an anticipated debt issuance in 2018.
Commodity Price Risk
We principally use a combination of purchase orders and various short- and long-term supply arrangements in connection with the purchase of raw materials, including certain commodities and agricultural products. We also enter into commodity futures, options and swap contracts to reduce the volatility of price fluctuations of wheat, diesel fuel, soybean oil, natural gas, aluminum, cocoa, butter, corn and cheese, which impact the cost of raw materials. Commodity futures, options, and swap contracts are either designated as cash-flow hedging instruments or are undesignated. We hedge a portion of commodity requirements for periods typically up to 18 months. There were no commodity contracts accounted for as cash-flow hedges as of May 1, 2016, or August 2, 2015. The notional amount of commodity contracts not designated as accounting hedges was $93 at May 1, 2016, and $95 at August 2, 2015.
Equity Price Risk
We enter into swap contracts which hedge a portion of exposures relating to certain deferred compensation obligations linked to the total return of our capital stock, the total return of the Vanguard Institutional Index, and the total return of the Vanguard Total International Stock Index. Under these contracts, we pay variable interest rates and receive from the counterparty either the total return on our capital stock; the total return of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index, which is expected to approximate the total return of the Vanguard Institutional Index; or the total return of the iShares MSCI EAFE Index, which is expected to approximate the total return of the Vanguard Total International Stock Index. These contracts were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. We enter into these contracts for periods typically not exceeding 12 months. The notional amount of the contracts as of May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015, was $42 and $49, respectively.

18






The following table summarizes the fair value of derivative instruments on a gross basis as recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015:
 
Balance Sheet Classification
 
May 1,
2016
 
August 2,
2015
Asset Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Other current assets
 
$

 
$
3

Total derivatives designated as hedges
 
 
$

 
$
3

Derivatives not designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Commodity derivative contracts
Other current assets
 
$
6

 
$
1

Cross-currency swap contracts
Other current assets
 
30

 
18

Deferred compensation derivative contracts
Other current assets
 

 
1

Foreign exchange forward contracts
Other current assets
 
1

 
9

Commodity derivative contracts
Other assets
 
1

 

Cross-currency swap contracts
Other assets
 

 
22

Total derivatives not designated as hedges
 
 
$
38

 
$
51

Total asset derivatives
 
 
$
38

 
$
54

 
Balance Sheet Classification
 
May 1,
2016
 
August 2,
2015
Liability Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Accrued liabilities
 
$
3

 
$

Forward starting interest rate swaps
Other liabilities
 
30

 
8

Total derivatives designated as hedges
 
 
$
33

 
$
8

Derivatives not designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Commodity derivative contracts
Accrued liabilities
 
$
2

 
$
10

Deferred compensation derivative contracts
Accrued liabilities
 
1

 

Foreign exchange forward contracts
Accrued liabilities
 
13

 
2

Total derivatives not designated as hedges
 
 
$
16

 
$
12

Total liability derivatives
 
 
$
49

 
$
20

We do not offset the fair values of derivative assets and liabilities executed with the same counterparty that are generally subject to enforceable netting agreements. However, if we were to offset and record the asset and liability balances of derivatives on a net basis, the amounts presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015, would be adjusted as detailed in the following table:
 
 
May 1, 2016
 
August 2, 2015
Derivative Instrument
 
Gross Amounts Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet
 
Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Subject to Netting Agreements
 
Net Amount
 
Gross Amounts Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet
 
Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Subject to Netting Agreements
 
Net Amount
Total asset derivatives
 
$
38

 
$
(25
)
 
$
13

 
$
54

 
$
(13
)
 
$
41

Total liability derivatives
 
$
49

 
$
(25
)
 
$
24

 
$
20

 
$
(13
)
 
$
7

We do not offset fair value amounts recognized for exchange-traded commodity derivative instruments and cash margin accounts executed with the same counterparty that are subject to enforceable netting agreements. We are required to maintain cash margin accounts in connection with funding the settlement of open positions. At May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015, a cash margin account balance of $1 and $12, respectively, was included in Other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

19






The following tables show the effect of our derivative instruments designated as cash-flow hedges for the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, in other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI) and the Consolidated Statements of Earnings:
 
 
 
Total Cash-Flow Hedge OCI Activity
Derivatives Designated as Cash-Flow Hedges
 
 
May 1,
2016
 
May 3,
2015
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
OCI derivative gain (loss) at beginning of quarter
 
 
$
(26
)
 
$
(36
)
Effective portion of changes in fair value recognized in OCI:
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
 
(21
)
 
(9
)
Forward starting interest rate swaps
 
 
(4
)
 
21

Amount of (gain) loss reclassified from OCI to earnings:
Location in Earnings
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Cost of products sold
 
(4
)
 
(2
)
Forward starting interest rate swaps
Interest expense
 
1

 
1

OCI derivative gain (loss) at end of quarter
 
 
$
(54
)
 
$
(25
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
 
 
 
OCI derivative gain (loss) at beginning of year
 
 
$
(10
)
 
$
(4
)
Effective portion of changes in fair value recognized in OCI:
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
 
(13
)
 
4

Forward starting interest rate swaps
 
 
(22
)
 
(25
)
Amount of (gain) loss reclassified from OCI to earnings:
Location in Earnings
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Cost of products sold
 
(10
)
 
(2
)
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Other expenses / (income)
 
(2
)
 
(1
)
Forward starting interest rate swaps
Interest expense
 
3

 
3

OCI derivative gain (loss) at end of quarter
 
 
$
(54
)
 
$
(25
)
Based on current valuations, the amount expected to be reclassified from OCI into earnings within the next 12 months is a loss of $17. The ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing were not material.
The following table shows the effects of our derivative instruments not designated as hedges in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings:
 
 
 
 
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives
Derivatives not Designated as Hedges
 
Location of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Earnings
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
Cost of products sold
 
$
1

 
$
2

 
$

 
$
2

Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
Other expenses / (income)
 
2

 
(1
)
 
1

 
(1
)
Cross-currency swap contracts
 
Other expenses / (income)
 
(21
)
 
(10
)
 
(9
)
 
42

Commodity derivative contracts
 
Cost of products sold
 
9

 
6

 

 
(12
)
Deferred compensation derivative contracts
 
Administrative expenses
 
4

 
2

 
4

 
5

Total
 
 
 
$
(5
)
 
$
(1
)
 
$
(4
)
 
$
36

11.
Variable Interest Entity
In February 2016, we agreed to make a $125 capital commitment to Acre Venture Partners, L.P. (Acre), a limited partnership formed to make venture capital investments in innovative new companies in food and food-related industries. Acre is managed by its general partner, Acre Ventures GP, LLC, which is independent of us. We are the sole limited partner of Acre and own a 99.8% interest. Our share of earnings (loss) is calculated according to the terms of the partnership agreement. Acre is a VIE. We have determined that we are the primary beneficiary. Therefore, we consolidate Acre and account for the third party ownership as a noncontrolling interest. Through May 1, 2016, we funded $26 of the capital commitment. Except for the remaining unfunded capital commitment of $99, we do not have obligations to provide additional financial or other support to Acre.

20






Acre elected the fair value option to account for qualifying investments to more appropriately reflect the value of the investments in the financial statements. The investments were $28 and are included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in the fair values of investments for which the fair value option was elected are included in Other expenses / (income) on the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Changes in the fair value were not material through May 1, 2016. The liabilities of Acre were not material.
12.
Fair Value Measurements
We categorize financial assets and liabilities based on the following fair value hierarchy:
Level 1: Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability through corroboration with observable market data.
Level 3: Unobservable inputs, which are valued based on estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.
Fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date. When available, we use unadjusted quoted market prices to measure the fair value and classify such items as Level 1. If quoted market prices are not available, we base fair value upon internally developed models that use current market-based or independently sourced market parameters such as interest rates and currency rates. Included in the fair value of derivative instruments is an adjustment for credit and nonperformance risk.
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following table presents our financial assets and liabilities, excluding pension assets, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of May 1, 2016, and August 2, 2015, consistent with the fair value hierarchy:
 
Fair Value
as of
May 1,
2016
 
Fair Value Measurements at
May 1, 2016 Using
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
Fair Value
as of
August 2,
2015
 
Fair Value Measurements at
August 2, 2015 Using
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts(1)
$
1

 
$

 
$
1

 
$

 
$
12

 
$

 
$
12

 
$

Commodity derivative contracts(2)
7

 
6

 
1

 

 
1

 
1

 

 

Cross-currency swap contracts(3)
30

 

 
30

 

 
40

 

 
40

 

Deferred compensation derivative contracts(4)

 

 

 

 
1

 

 
1

 

Fair value option investments(5)
27

 

 
7

 
20

 

 

 

 

Total assets at fair value
$
65

 
$
6

 
$
39

 
$
20

 
$
54

 
$
1

 
$
53

 
$


21






 
Fair Value
as of
May 1,
2016
 
Fair Value Measurements at
May 1, 2016 Using
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
Fair Value
as of
August 2,
2015
 
Fair Value Measurements at
August 2, 2015 Using
Fair Value Hierarchy
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Forward starting interest rate swaps(6)
$
30

 
$

 
$
30

 
$

 
$
8

 
$

 
$
8

 
$

Foreign exchange forward contracts(1)
16

 

 
16

 

 
2

 

 
2

 

Commodity derivative contracts(2)
2

 
2

 

 

 
10

 
10

 

 

Deferred compensation derivative contracts(4)
1

 

 
1

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred compensation obligation(7)
114

 
114

 

 

 
120

 
120

 

 

Total liabilities at fair value
$
163

 
$
116

 
$
47

 
$

 
$
140

 
$
130

 
$
10

 
$

___________________________________ 
(1) 
Based on observable market transactions of spot currency rates and forward rates.
(2) 
Based on quoted futures exchanges and on observable prices of futures and options transactions in the marketplace.
(3) 
Based on observable local benchmarks for currency and interest rates.
(4) 
Based on LIBOR and equity index swap rates.
(5) 
Primarily represents investments in equity securities that are not readily marketable and are accounted for under the fair value option. The investments were funded by Acre in the three-month period ended May 1, 2016. See Note 11 for additional information. Fair value is based on analyzing recent transactions and transactions of comparable companies, and the discounted cash flow method. In addition, allocation methods, including the option pricing method, are used in distributing fair value among various equity holders according to rights and preferences. Changes in the fair value of investments were not material through May 1, 2016.
(6) 
Based on LIBOR swap rates.
(7) 
Based on the fair value of the participants’ investments.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and short-term borrowings, excluding the current portion of long-term debt, approximate fair value.
Cash equivalents of $64 at May 1, 2016, and $39 at August 2, 2015, represent fair value as these highly liquid investments have an original maturity of three months or less. Fair value of cash equivalents is based on Level 2 inputs.
The fair value of long-term debt was $2,686 at May 1, 2016, and $2,623 at August 2, 2015. The carrying value was $2,552 at May 1, 2016 and August 2, 2015. The fair value of long-term debt is principally estimated using Level 2 inputs based on quoted market prices or pricing models using current market rates.
13.
Share Repurchases
In June 2011, the Board authorized the purchase of up to $1,000 of our stock. This program has no expiration date. In addition to this publicly announced program, we have a separate Board authorization to purchase shares to offset the impact of dilution from shares issued under our stock compensation plans.
During the nine-month period ended May 1, 2016, we repurchased approximately 2 million shares at a cost of $118. Of this amount, $75 was used to repurchase shares pursuant to our June 2011 publicly announced share repurchase program. Approximately $475 remained available under this program as of May 1, 2016. During the nine-month period ended May 3, 2015, we repurchased approximately 4 million shares at a cost of $192.

22






14.
Stock-based Compensation
We provide compensation benefits by issuing stock options, unrestricted stock, restricted stock and restricted stock units (including time-lapse restricted stock units, EPS performance restricted stock units, total shareholder return (TSR) performance restricted stock units, strategic performance restricted stock units and special performance restricted stock units). In 2016, we issued stock options, time-lapse restricted stock units, unrestricted stock, EPS performance restricted stock units and TSR performance restricted stock units. We have not issued strategic performance restricted stock units or special performance restricted stock units in 2016.
Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings was $16 and $15 for the three-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, respectively. Tax-related benefits of $5 and $6 were also recognized for the three-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, respectively. Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings was $50 and $46 for the nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, respectively. Tax-related benefits of $18 and $17 were also recognized for the nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, respectively. Cash received from the exercise of stock options was $2 and $9 for the nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, respectively, and is reflected in cash flows from financing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
The following table summarizes stock option activity as of May 1, 2016:
 
Options
 
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
(Options in
thousands)
 
 
 
(In years)
 
 
Outstanding at August 2, 2015
74

 
$
29.91

 
 
 
 
Granted
711

 
$
50.21

 
 
 
 
Exercised
(74
)
 
$
29.91

 
 
 
 
Terminated

 
$

 
 
 
 
Outstanding at May 1, 2016
711

 
$
50.21

 
9.4

 
$
8

Exercisable at May 1, 2016

 
$

 

 
$

The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, was $2 and $5, respectively. We measure the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The expected term of options granted was based on the weighted average time of vesting and the end of the contractual term. We utilized this simplified method as we do not have sufficient historical exercise data to provide a reasonable basis upon which to estimate the expected term.
The following weighted-average assumptions were used for grants in 2016:
 
2016
Risk-free interest rate
1.68%
Expected dividend yield
2.46%
Expected volatility
18.35%
Expected term
6 years
We expense stock options on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, except for awards issued to retirement eligible participants, which we expense on an accelerated basis. As of May 1, 2016, total remaining unearned compensation related to nonvested stock options was $2, which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining service period of 2.1 years.

23






The following table summarizes time-lapse restricted stock units, EPS performance restricted stock units, strategic performance restricted stock units and special performance restricted stock units as of May 1, 2016:
 
Units
 
Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
(Restricted stock
units in thousands)
 
 
Nonvested at August 2, 2015
2,410

 
$
41.40

Granted
691

 
$
50.28

Vested
(850
)
 
$
39.42

Forfeited
(183
)
 
$
43.62

Nonvested at May 1, 2016
2,068

 
$
44.99

We determine the fair value of time-lapse restricted stock units, EPS performance restricted stock units, strategic performance restricted stock units and special performance restricted stock units based on the quoted price of our stock at the date of grant. We expense time-lapse restricted stock units on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, except for awards issued to retirement-eligible participants, which we expense on an accelerated basis. We expense EPS performance restricted stock units on a graded-vesting basis, except for awards issued to retirement-eligible participants, which we expense on an accelerated basis. There were 211 thousand EPS performance target grants outstanding at May 1, 2016, with a weighted-average grant-date fair value of $45.32. We expense strategic performance restricted stock units on a straight-line basis over the service period. Awards of the strategic performance restricted stock units are earned based upon the achievement of two key metrics, net sales and EPS growth, compared to strategic plan objectives during a three-year period. There were 337 thousand strategic performance target grants outstanding at May 1, 2016, with a grant-date fair value of $41.21. The actual number of EPS performance restricted stock units and strategic performance restricted stock units issued at the vesting date could range from either 0% or 100% and 0% to 200%, respectively, of the initial grant, depending on actual performance achieved. We estimate expense based on the number of awards expected to vest.
In 2015, we issued special performance restricted stock units for which vesting is contingent upon meeting various financial goals and performance milestones to support innovation and growth initiatives. These awards vest over a period of 2 years and are included in the table above. The actual number of special performance awards issued at the vesting date could range from 0% to 150%. There were 126 thousand special performance restricted stock units outstanding at May 1, 2016, with a grant-date fair value of $42.22.
As of May 1, 2016, total remaining unearned compensation related to nonvested time-lapse restricted stock units, EPS performance restricted stock units, strategic performance restricted stock units and special performance restricted stock units was $32, which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining service period of 1.7 years. The fair value of restricted stock units vested during the nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, was $43 and $54, respectively. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of the restricted stock units granted during the nine-month period ended May 3, 2015, was $42.43.
The following table summarizes TSR performance restricted stock units as of May 1, 2016:
 
Units
 
Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
(Restricted stock
units in thousands)
 
 
Nonvested at August 2, 2015
1,579

 
$
40.75

Granted
682

 
$
62.44

Vested
(438
)
 
$
39.76

Forfeited
(146
)
 
$
46.94

Nonvested at May 1, 2016
1,677

 
$
49.28


24






We estimated the fair value of TSR performance restricted stock units at the grant date using a Monte Carlo simulation. Assumptions used in the Monte Carlo simulation were as follows:
 
2016
 
2015
Risk-free interest rate
0.92%
 
0.97%
Expected dividend yield
2.46%
 
2.91%
Expected volatility
17.25%
 
16.20%
Expected term
3 years
 
3 years
We recognize compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the service period. As of May 1, 2016, total remaining unearned compensation related to nonvested TSR performance restricted stock units was $41, which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining service period of 2.0 years. In the first quarter of 2016, recipients of TSR performance restricted stock units earned 100% of the initial grants based upon our TSR ranking in a performance peer group during the three-year period ended July 31, 2015. The fair value of TSR performance restricted stock units vested during the nine-month period ended May 1, 2016, was $22. There were no TSR performance restricted stock units scheduled to vest in the nine-month period ended May 3, 2015. The grant-date fair value of the TSR performance restricted stock units granted during 2015 was $43.39.
The excess tax benefits on the exercise of stock options and vested restricted stock presented as cash flows from financing activities for the nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, and May 3, 2015, were $7 and $5, respectively.
15.
Inventories
 
May 1,
2016
 
August 2,
2015
   Raw materials, containers and supplies
$
370

 
$
427

   Finished products
459

 
568

 
$
829

 
$
995


25






Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
OVERVIEW
Description of the Company
Unless otherwise stated, the terms “we,” “us,” “our” and the “company” refer to Campbell Soup Company and its consolidated subsidiaries.
We are a manufacturer and marketer of high-quality, branded convenience food products. Through the fourth quarter of 2015, we reported the results of our operations in the following reportable segments: U.S. Simple Meals; Global Baking and Snacking; International Simple Meals and Beverages; U.S. Beverages; and Bolthouse and Foodservice. As of the beginning of 2016, we are managing our businesses in three divisions focused mainly on product categories. The new divisions, which represent our operating and reportable segments, are as follows:
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages segment includes the retail and food service channel businesses in the U.S., Canada and Latin America. The segment includes the following products: Campbell’s condensed and ready-to-serve soups; Swanson broth and stocks; Prego pasta sauces; Pace Mexican sauces; Campbell’s gravies, pasta, beans and dinner sauces; Swanson canned poultry; Plum food and snacks; V8 juices and beverages; and Campbell’s tomato juice.
Global Biscuits and Snacks segment includes Pepperidge Farm cookies, crackers, bakery and frozen products in U.S. retail; Arnott’s biscuits in Australia and Asia Pacific; and Kelsen cookies globally. The segment also includes the simple meals and shelf-stable beverages business in Australia and Asia Pacific.
Campbell Fresh includes Bolthouse Farms fresh carrots, carrot ingredients, refrigerated beverages and refrigerated salad dressings; Garden Fresh Gourmet salsa, hummus, dips and tortilla chips, which was acquired in June 2015; and the U.S. refrigerated soup business.
In 2016, we also modified our method of allocating pension and postretirement benefit costs to segments. Through 2015, we included all components of benefit expense in measuring segment performance. In 2016, only service cost is allocated to segments. All other components of expense, including interest cost, expected return on assets, and recognized actuarial gains and losses, are reflected in Corporate and not included in segment operating results.
In 2016, we elected to change our method of accounting for the recognition of actuarial gains and losses for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans and the calculation of expected return on pension plan assets. Historically, actuarial gains and losses associated with benefit obligations were recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and were amortized into earnings over the remaining service life of participants to the extent that the amounts were in excess of a corridor. Under the new policy, actuarial gains and losses will be recognized immediately in our Consolidated Statements of Earnings as of the measurement date, which is our fiscal year end, or more frequently if an interim remeasurement is required. In addition, we no longer use a market-related value of plan assets, which is an average value, to determine the expected return on assets but rather will use the fair value of plan assets. We believe the new policies will provide greater transparency to ongoing operating results and better reflect the impact of current market conditions on the obligations and assets. See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
On June 29, 2015, we completed the acquisition of the assets of Garden Fresh Gourmet for $232 million. Garden Fresh Gourmet is a provider of refrigerated salsa, hummus, dips and tortilla chips. See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Summary of Results
This Summary of Results provides significant highlights from the discussion and analysis that follows.
Net sales decreased 2% in the current quarter to $1.87 billion, as lower volume, increased promotional spending and the adverse impact of currency translation were partially offset by the impact of the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet and higher selling prices. The sales performance reflected declines in U.S. soup, V8 beverages and fresh carrots.
Gross profit, as a percent of sales, decreased to 35.3% from 35.9% in the year-ago quarter. The decrease was primarily due to increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments. Excluding the pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments, gross profit increased as productivity improvements were partially offset by cost inflation, higher supply chain costs and other factors (including higher carrot costs).
Earnings per share were $.59 in the current quarter, compared to $.57 in the year-ago quarter. The current and prior-year quarter included expenses of $.06 per share and $.09 per share, respectively, from items impacting comparability as discussed below.

26






Net Earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
The following items impacted the comparability of earnings and earnings per share:
In 2016 and 2015, we recognized mark-to-market adjustments as certain U.S. plans were remeasured. In 2016, the plans were remeasured due to a high level of lump sum payments to certain vested plan participants arising primarily out of a limited-time offer to accept a single lump sum in lieu of future annuity payments. In the third quarter of 2016, we recognized mark-to-market losses of $54 million ($34 million after tax, or $.11 per share). Year-to-date in 2016, we recognized mark-to-market losses of $175 million ($110 million after tax, or $.35 per share). In 2015, the plans were remeasured due to the impact of a voluntary employee separation program. In the third quarter and year-to-date period of 2015, we recognized mark-to-market losses of $26 million ($16 million after tax, or $.05 per share).
In 2015, we implemented a new enterprise design and initiatives to reduce costs and to streamline our organizational structure. In the third quarter of 2016, we recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $2 million and implementation costs and other related costs of $13 million in Administrative expenses related to these initiatives (aggregate impact of $9 million after tax, or $.03 per share). In the second quarter of 2016, we also recorded a reduction to pre-tax restructuring charges of $3 million related to the 2014 initiative to improve supply chain efficiency in Australia. Year-to-date, we recorded pre-tax restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs associated with the 2015 and 2014 initiatives of $67 million ($42 million after tax, or $.14 per share). In the third quarter and year-to-date period of 2015, we recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $9 million and implementation costs of $9 million in Administrative expenses related to the 2015 initiatives (aggregate impact of $11 million after tax, or $.04 per share). See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and "Restructuring Charges and Cost Savings Initiatives" for additional information.
In the third quarter of 2016, we recorded a gain of $25 million ($.08 per share) in Other expenses / (income) from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition. The claim was for a warranty breach and has no meaningful ongoing impact on Kelsen.
The items impacting comparability are summarized below:
 
Three Months Ended
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
(Millions, except per share amounts)
Earnings
Impact
 
EPS
Impact
 
Earnings
Impact
 
EPS
Impact
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
185

 
$
.59

 
$
179

 
$
.57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
$
(34
)
 
$
(.11
)
 
$
(16
)
 
$
(.05
)
Restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs
(9
)
 
(.03
)
 
(11
)
 
(.04
)
Claim settlement
25

 
.08

 

 

Impact of items on Net earnings
$
(18
)
 
$
(.06
)
 
$
(27
)
 
$
(.09
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
(Millions, except per share amounts)
Earnings
Impact
 
EPS
Impact
 
Earnings
Impact
 
EPS
Impact
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
644

 
$
2.07

 
$
649

 
$
2.07

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
$
(110
)
 
$
(.35
)
 
$
(16
)
 
$
(.05
)
Restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs
(42
)
 
(.14
)
 
(11
)
 
(.04
)
Claim settlement
25

 
.08

 

 

Impact of items on Net earnings
$
(127
)
 
$
(.41
)
 
$
(27
)
 
$
(.09
)
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company were $185 million ($.59 per share) in the current quarter, compared to $179 million ($.57 per share) in the year-ago quarter. After adjusting for items impacting comparability, earnings decreased primarily due to higher marketing and selling expenses, and administrative expenses, partially offset by a lower effective tax rate.
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company were $644 million ($2.07 per share) in the nine-month period ended May 1, 2016, compared to $649 million ($2.07 per share) in the year-ago period. After adjusting for items impacting comparability, earnings increased due to improved gross profit performance and lower marketing and selling expenses, partially offset by the negative impact of currency translation and a higher effective tax rate.

27






THIRD-QUARTER DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Sales
An analysis of net sales by reportable segment follows:
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
(Millions)
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
% Change
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
999

 
$
1,030

 
(3)%
Global Biscuits and Snacks
608

 
623

 
(2)
Campbell Fresh
263

 
247

 
6
 
$
1,870

 
$
1,900

 
(2)%
An analysis of percent change of net sales by reportable segment follows:
 
Americas
Simple
Meals and
Beverages
 
Global
Biscuits
and
Snacks (2)
 
Campbell Fresh
 
Total
Volume and Mix
(2)%
 
—%
 
(2)%
 
(2)%
Price and Sales Allowances
1
 
1
 
 
1
Increased Promotional Spending(1)
(1)
 
(2)
 
(2)
 
(1)
Currency
(1)
 
(2)
 
 
(1)
Acquisitions
 
 
10
 
1
 
(3)%
 
(2)%
 
6%
 
(2)%
__________________________________________
(1)
Represents revenue reductions from trade promotion and consumer coupon redemption programs.
(2) 
Sum of individual amounts does not add due to rounding.
In Americas Simple Meals and Beverages, sales decreased 3% due to declines in soup and V8 beverages, partially offset by gains in Prego pasta sauces and Plum products. U.S. soup sales decreased 5% primarily as a result of category declines, which were partly related to warmer weather, and the impact of our net price realization actions. Further details of U.S. soup include:
Sales of condensed soups declined 4%.
Sales of ready-to-serve soups declined 13%.
Broth sales increased 10%.
The sales decrease in ready-to-serve soups was also due to marketing execution issues on Chunky soups.
In Global Biscuits and Snacks, sales decreased 2% primarily due to the impact of currency translation. Excluding the negative impact of currency translation, sales decreased due to declines in Kelsen, partially offset by gains in Pepperidge Farm Goldfish crackers, and soup and beverages in Australia. Excluding the negative impact of currency translation, sales of Arnott’s biscuits were comparable with gains in Indonesia offset by declines in sweet biscuit varieties in Australia. In 2016, promotional spending was increased to remain competitive and due in part to timing of promotional activities.
In Campbell Fresh, sales increased 6% due to the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet, which we acquired on June 29, 2015. Excluding the acquisition, sales declined reflecting a double-digit decrease in fresh carrots, partially offset by an 8% increase in refrigerated beverages and salad dressings. We were unable to meet demand for fresh carrots due to supply issues related to the adverse impact of weather conditions on crop yields. In 2016, promotional spending on refrigerated beverages was increased to remain competitive and to support new product launches.

28






Gross Profit
Gross profit, defined as Net sales less Cost of products sold, decreased by $22 million in the current quarter. As a percent of sales, gross profit was 35.3% in the current quarter and 35.9% in the year-ago quarter. The 0.6% percentage-point overall decrease in gross margin percentage was due to the following factors:
 
 
Margin Impact
Cost inflation, supply chain costs and other factors(1)
 
(1.6)%
Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
 
(1.0)
Higher level of promotional spending
 
(0.7)
Impact of acquisition
 
(0.3)
Mix
 
0.4
Higher selling prices
 
0.5
Productivity improvements
 
2.1
 
 
(0.6)%
__________________________________________
(1) 
Includes a negative margin impact of 0.5 percentage points from higher carrot costs due to the adverse impact of weather conditions on crop yields and a positive margin impact of 0.2 percentage points from cost savings initiatives.
Marketing and Selling Expenses
Marketing and selling expenses as a percent of sales were 12.2% in 2016 compared to 11.2% in 2015. Marketing and selling expenses increased 7% in 2016 from 2015. The increase was primarily due to higher advertising and consumer promotion expenses (approximately 5 percentage points); higher selling and marketing overhead expenses (approximately 4 percentage points); and losses on benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 2 percentage points), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 3 percentage points) and the impact of currency translation (approximately 1 percentage point). The increase in advertising and consumer promotion expenses was primarily in Pepperidge Farm and V8 beverages.
Administrative Expenses
Administrative expenses as a percent of sales were 8.2% in 2016 compared to 7.5% in 2015. Administrative expenses increased 8% in 2016 from 2015. The increase was primarily due to higher incentive compensation and other benefit costs (approximately 6 percentage points); costs related to the implementation of the new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives (approximately 3 percentage points); losses on benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 2 percentage points); inflation (approximately 2 percentage points); increased costs to support long-term innovation (approximately 1 percentage point); and the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet (approximately 1 percentage point), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 8 percentage points).
Research and Development Expenses
Research and development expenses increased $1 million, or 3%, in 2016 from 2015. The increase was primarily due to losses on benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 7 percentage points); increased costs to support long-term innovation (approximately 3 percentage points); higher incentive compensation and other benefit costs (approximately 3 percentage points); and inflation and other expense increases (approximately 3 percentage points), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 13 percentage points).
Other Expenses / (Income)
Other income in 2016 included a $25 million gain from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition.
Operating Earnings
Segment operating earnings decreased 3% in 2016 from 2015.

29






An analysis of operating earnings by segment follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
(Millions)
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
% Change
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
225

 
$
223

 
1%
Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
86

 
93

 
(8)
Campbell Fresh
 
13

 
18

 
(28)
 
 
324

 
334

 
(3)%
Corporate
 
(54
)
 
(40
)
 
 
Restructuring charges(1)
 
(2
)
 
(9
)
 
 
Earnings before interest and taxes
 
$
268

 
$
285

 
 
__________________________________________
(1)
See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on restructuring charges.
Earnings from Americas Simple Meals and Beverages increased 1%. The increase was primarily due to a higher gross margin percentage, benefiting from productivity improvements, partially offset by lower volumes and higher marketing and selling expenses.
Earnings from Global Biscuits and Snacks decreased 8%. The decrease was primarily due to a higher incentive compensation costs and the negative impact of currency translation.
Earnings from Campbell Fresh decreased 28% to $13 million. The decrease was primarily due to higher carrot costs, partially offset by productivity improvements. Carrot costs were negatively impacted in the quarter by the adverse impact of weather conditions on crop yields.
In 2016, Corporate included $54 million of losses associated with benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments, costs of $13 million related to the implementation of our new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives and a $25 million gain from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition. In 2015, Corporate included $26 million of losses associated with benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments and costs of $9 million related to the implementation of our new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives. The remaining increase in expenses was primarily related to higher incentive compensation costs.
Interest Expense
Interest expense was $29 million in 2016 and in 2015, reflecting higher average interest rates on the debt portfolio offset by lower levels of debt.
Taxes on Earnings
The effective tax rate was 22.9% in 2016, compared to 30.4% in 2015. In 2016, we recognized a tax benefit of $20 million on $54 million of benefit plan mark-to-market losses and a $6 million tax benefit on $15 million of restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs. In 2016, the $25 million gain from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition was not subject to tax. In 2015, we recognized a tax benefit of $10 million on $26 million of benefit plan mark-to-market losses and a $7 million tax benefit on $18 million of restructuring charges and implementation costs. After adjusting for the items above, the remaining decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily due to lower taxes on foreign earnings, partially offset by the geographic mix of earnings.
NINE-MONTH DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Sales
An analysis of net sales by reportable segment follows:
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
(Millions)
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
% Change
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
3,538

 
$
3,641

 
(3)%
Global Biscuits and Snacks
1,942

 
2,014

 
(4)
Campbell Fresh
794

 
734

 
8
 
$
6,274

 
$
6,389

 
(2)%

30






An analysis of percent change of net sales by reportable segment follows:
 
Americas
Simple
Meals and
Beverages (2)
 
Global
Biscuits
and
Snacks
 
Campbell Fresh
 
Total
Volume and Mix
(3)%
 
—%
 
(1)%
 
(2)%
Price and Sales Allowances
2
 
1
 
 
1
Increased Promotional Spending(1)
 
 
(1)
 
Currency
(1)
 
(5)
 
 
(2)
Acquisitions
 
 
10
 
1
 
(3)%
 
(4)%
 
8%
 
(2)%
__________________________________________
(1) 
Represents revenue reductions from trade promotion and consumer coupon redemption programs.
(2) 
Sum of individual amounts does not add due to rounding.
In Americas Simple Meals and Beverages, sales decreased 3%. Sales decreased due to declines in soup and V8 beverages, partially offset gains in Prego pasta sauces, Plum products and Pace Mexican sauces. U.S. soup sales decreased 4% primarily as a result of the impact of our net price realization actions and category declines, which were partly related to warmer weather. Further details of U.S. soup include:
Sales of condensed soups increased 1%.
Sales of ready-to-serve soups declined 15%.
Broth sales were comparable to the prior year.
The sales decrease in ready-to-serve soups was also due to marketing execution issues on Chunky soups.
In Global Biscuits and Snacks, sales decreased 4% due to the impact of currency translation. Excluding the negative impact of currency translation, segment sales increased due to gains in Pepperidge Farm Goldfish crackers and fresh bakery products. Excluding the negative impact of currency translation, sales of Arnott’s biscuits were comparable to the prior year with gains in Australia offset by declines in Indonesia.
In Campbell Fresh, sales increased 8% due to the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet, which was acquired on June 29, 2015. Excluding the acquisition, sales declined reflecting lower sales in fresh carrots and carrot ingredients, partially offset by gains in refrigerated beverages and salad dressings.
Gross Profit
Gross profit, defined as Net sales less Cost of products sold, increased by $14 million in 2016. As a percent of sales, gross profit was 35.6% in 2016 and 34.7% in 2015. The 0.9 percentage-point overall increase in gross margin percentage was due to the following factors:
 
 
Margin Impact
Productivity improvements
 
1.9%
Higher selling prices
 
0.8
Mix
 
0.2
Lower level of promotional spending
 
0.1
Cost inflation, supply chain costs and other factors(1)
 
(0.3)
Impact of acquisition
 
(0.3)
Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments  
 
(1.5)
 
 
0.9%
__________________________________________
(1) 
Includes a positive margin impact of 0.6 percentage points from cost savings initiatives.
Marketing and Selling Expenses
Marketing and selling expenses as a percent of sales were 10.8% in 2016 compared to 10.9% in 2015. Marketing and selling expenses decreased 3% in 2016 from 2015. The decrease was primarily due to benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 5 percentage points) and the impact of currency translation (approximately 2 percentage points), partially offset by losses on

31






benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 3 percentage points) and higher selling expenses (approximately 1 percentage point).
Administrative Expenses
Administrative expenses as a percent of sales were 7.3% in 2016 compared to 6.4% in 2015. Administrative expenses increased 12% in 2016 from 2015. The increase was primarily due to costs related to the implementation of the new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives (approximately 6 percentage points); higher incentive compensation costs (approximately 6 percentage points); losses on benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 5 percentage points) and inflation (approximately 2 percentage points), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 6 percentage points) and the impact of currency translation (approximately 2 percentage points).
Research and Development Expenses
Research and development expenses increased $3 million, or 4%, in 2016 from 2015. The increase was primarily due to losses on benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 10 percentage points); increased costs to support long-term innovation (approximately 2 percentage points) and higher incentive compensation and other benefit costs (approximately 2 percentage points), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 11 percentage points).
Other Expenses / (Income)
Other income in 2016 included a $25 million gain from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition.
Operating Earnings
Segment operating earnings increased 14% in 2016 from 2015.
An analysis of operating earnings by segment follows:
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
(Millions)
 
May 1, 2016
 
May 3, 2015
 
% Change
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
878

 
$
765

 
15%
Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
341

 
306

 
11
Campbell Fresh
 
52

 
40

 
30
 
 
1,271

 
1,111

 
14%
Corporate
 
(242
)
 
(91
)
 
 
Restructuring charges(1)
 
(32
)
 
(9
)
 
 
Earnings before interest and taxes
 
$
997

 
$
1,011

 
 
__________________________________________
(1) 
See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on restructuring charges.
Earnings from Americas Simple Meals and Beverages increased 15%. The increase was primarily due to a higher gross margin percentage, benefiting from increased net price realization and productivity improvements, as well as lower marketing and selling expenses, partially offset by volume declines. Advertising and consumer promotion expenses were lower in 2016.
Earnings from Global Biscuits and Snacks increased 11%. The increase was primarily due to a higher gross margin percentage, benefiting from productivity improvements and increased net price realization, as well as volume gains, partly offset by the negative impact of currency translation.
Earnings from Campbell Fresh increased 30% from $40 million to $52 million. The increase was primarily due to a higher gross margin percentage and the impact of the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet. The improvement in gross margin percentage reflected productivity improvements and the favorable mix impact from growth in refrigerated beverages, partially offset by higher carrot costs.
In 2016, Corporate included $175 million of losses associated with benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments, costs of $35 million related to the implementation of our new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives and a $25 million gain from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition. In 2015, Corporate included $26 million of losses associated with benefit plan mark-to-market adjustments and costs of $9 million related to the implementation of our new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives.
Interest Expense
Interest expense increased to $86 million in 2016 from $81 million in 2015, reflecting higher average interest rates on the debt portfolio.

32






Taxes on Earnings
The effective tax rate was 29.5% in 2016, compared to 30.4% in 2015. In 2016, we recognized a tax benefit of $65 million on $175 million of benefit plan mark-to-market losses and a $25 million tax benefit on $67 million of restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs. In 2016, the $25 million gain from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition was not subject to tax. In 2015, we recognized a tax benefit of $10 million on $26 million of benefit plan mark-to-market losses and a $7 million tax benefit on $18 million of restructuring charges and implementation costs. After adjusting for the items above, the remaining increase in the effective tax rate was primarily due to the geographic mix of earnings, and lapping the favorable resolution of an intercompany pricing agreement between the U.S. and Canada in the prior year, partially offset by lower taxes on foreign earnings.
Restructuring Charges and Cost Savings Initiatives
2015 Initiatives
On January 29, 2015, we announced plans to implement a new enterprise design focused mainly on product categories. Under the new design, which we fully implemented at the beginning of 2016, our businesses are organized in the following divisions: Americas Simple Meals and Beverages, Global Biscuits and Snacks, and Campbell Fresh.
In support of the new enterprise design, we designed and implemented a new Integrated Global Services (IGS) organization to deliver shared services across the company. IGS, which became effective at the beginning of 2016, is expected to reduce costs while increasing our efficiency and effectiveness. We also streamlined our organizational structure. We are pursuing other initiatives to reduce costs and increase effectiveness, such as adopting zero-based budgeting over time.
As part of these initiatives, we commenced a voluntary employee separation program available to certain U.S.-based salaried employees nearing retirement who met age, length-of-service and business unit/function criteria. A total of 471 employees elected the program. The electing employees remained with us through at least July 31, 2015, with some remaining beyond July 31. We also implemented an initiative to reduce overhead across the organization by eliminating approximately 245 positions. In the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, we recorded a restructuring charge of $2 million and $35 million, respectively, related to these initiatives. In 2015, we recorded a restructuring charge of $102 million related to these initiatives. Of the amounts recorded in 2015, $9 million was recorded in the nine-month period ended May 3, 2015.
In the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, we also incurred charges of $13 million and $35 million, respectively, recorded in Administrative expenses related to the implementation of the new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives. In 2015, we incurred charges of $22 million recorded in Administrative expenses related to these initiatives. Of the amounts recorded in 2015, $9 million was recorded in the nine-month period ended May 3, 2015.
In the three- and nine-month periods ended May 1, 2016, the aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs recorded was $9 million, or $.03 per share, and $44 million, or $.14 per share, respectively. In the three- and nine-month periods ended May 3, 2015, the aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges and implementation costs was $11 million, or $.04 per share. The aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges and implementation and other costs recorded in 2015 was $78 million, or $.25 per share. A summary of the pre-tax costs associated with the 2015 initiatives is as follows:
(Millions)
Recognized
as of
May 1, 2016
Severance pay and benefits
$
128

Implementation costs and other related costs
66

Total
$
194

The total estimated pre-tax costs for the 2015 initiatives are approximately $250 million to $325 million. We expect the costs to consist of approximately $150 million to $165 million in severance pay and benefits, and approximately $100 million to $160 million in implementation costs and other related costs. We expect the total pre-tax costs related to the 2015 initiatives will be associated with segments as follows: Americas Simple Meals and Beverages - approximately 31%; Global Biscuits and Snacks - approximately 35%; Campbell Fresh - approximately 3%; and Corporate - approximately 31%.
We expect substantially all costs to be cash expenditures, except for $7 million of postretirement and pension curtailment costs incurred in 2015. We expect to incur the costs through 2018, and fund the costs through cash and short-term borrowings.
We expect the 2015 initiatives to generate pre-tax savings of approximately $205 million to $225 million in 2016, and once fully implemented, annual ongoing savings of approximately $300 million beginning in 2018. In the nine-month period ended May 1, 2016, pre-tax savings were $110 million. In 2015, annual pre-tax savings were $85 million.

33






Segment operating results do not include restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs because we evaluate segment performance excluding such charges. A summary of the pre-tax costs associated with segments is as follows:
 
May 1, 2016
(Millions)
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
Costs Incurred to Date
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
1

 
$
17

 
$
71

Global Biscuits and Snacks
3

 
23

 
67

Campbell Fresh

 

 
1

Corporate
11

 
30

 
55

Total
$
15

 
$
70

 
$
194

2014 Initiatives
In the nine-month period ended May 1, 2016, we recorded a reduction to restructuring charges of $3 million ($2 million after tax, or $.01 per share) related to the fiscal 2014 initiative to improve supply chain efficiency in Australia. As of January 31, 2016, we incurred substantially all of the costs related to the 2014 initiatives.
A summary of the pre-tax costs associated with the 2014 initiatives is as follows:
(Millions)
Total Program(1)
 
Change in Estimate
 
Recognized as of May 1, 2016
Severance pay and benefits
$
41

 
$
(3
)
 
$
38

Asset impairment
12

 

 
12

Other exit costs
1

 

 
1

Total
$
54

 
$
(3
)
 
$
51

______________________________________
(1) 
Recognized as of August 2, 2015.
See Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We expect foreseeable liquidity and capital resource requirements to be met through anticipated cash flows from operations; long-term borrowings; short-term borrowings, including commercial paper; and cash and cash equivalents. We believe that our sources of financing will be adequate to meet our future requirements.
We generated cash from operations of $1.183 billion in 2016, compared to $971 million in 2015. The increase in 2016 was primarily due to higher cash earnings and lower working capital requirements, primarily inventories.
Capital expenditures were $225 million in 2016, compared to $242 million in 2015. Capital expenditures are expected to total approximately $350 million in 2016. Capital expenditures in 2016 included projects to expand: beverage and salad dressing capacity at Bolthouse Farms (approximately $22 million); biscuit capacity in Indonesia (approximately $10 million); warehouse capacity in North America (approximately $10 million); cracker capacity at Pepperidge Farm (approximately $7 million); and capacity in Malaysia (approximately $5 million); as well as the continued enhancement of our corporate headquarters (approximately $12 million) and the ongoing initiative to simplify the soup-making process in North America (also known as the soup common platform initiative) (approximately $3 million).
Dividend payments were $294 million in 2016 and $297 million in 2015. We repurchased approximately 2 million shares at a cost of $118 million in 2016, and approximately 4 million shares at a cost of $192 million in 2015. See Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and “Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds” for more information.
At May 1, 2016, we had $1.134 billion of short-term borrowings due within one year, of which $1.122 billion was comprised of commercial paper borrowings. As of May 1, 2016, we issued $47 million of standby letters of credit. We have a committed revolving credit facility totaling $2.2 billion that matures in December 2018. This facility remained unused at May 1, 2016, except for $3 million of standby letters of credit that we issued under it. This revolving credit facility supports our commercial paper programs and other general corporate purposes. We may also increase the commitment under the credit facility up to an additional $500 million, upon the agreement of either existing lenders or of additional banks not currently parties to the existing credit agreements.
In September 2014, we filed a shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission that registered an indeterminate amount of debt securities. Under the registration statement, we may issue debt securities from time to time, depending on market conditions.

34






We are in compliance with the covenants contained in our revolving credit facilities and debt securities.
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires the use of estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented. Actual results could differ from those estimates and assumptions. Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The accounting policies we used in preparing these financial statements are substantially consistent with those we applied in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 2, 2015, with the exception of the changes in accounting policy related to our method of accounting for the recognition of actuarial gains and losses for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans and the calculation of expected return on pension plan assets as described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Our significant accounting estimates are described in Management’s Discussion and Analysis included in the 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
See Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information on recent accounting pronouncements.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This quarterly report contains “forward-looking” statements that reflect our current expectations regarding our future results of operations, economic performance, financial condition and achievements. We try, wherever possible, to identify these forward-looking statements by using words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “will” and similar expressions. One can also identify them by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements reflect our current plans and expectations and are based on information currently available to us. They rely on a number of assumptions regarding future events and estimates which could be inaccurate and which are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties.
We wish to caution the reader that the following important factors and those important factors described in our other Securities and Exchange Commission filings, or in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K, could affect our actual results and could cause such results to vary materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us:
the impact of strong competitive response to our efforts to leverage our brand power with product innovation, promotional programs and new advertising;
the impact of changes in consumer demand for our products;
the risks in the marketplace associated with trade and consumer acceptance of product improvements, shelving initiatives, new products, and pricing and promotional strategies;
our ability to achieve sales and earnings guidance, which is based on assumptions about sales volume, product mix, the development and success of new products, the impact of marketing, promotional and pricing actions, product costs and currency;
our ability to realize projected cost savings and benefits from our efficiency and/or restructuring initiatives;
our ability to successfully manage changes to our organizational structure and/or business processes, including our selling, distribution, manufacturing and information management systems or processes;
the practices and increased significance of certain of our key customers;
the impact of new or changing inventory management practices by our customers;
the impact of fluctuations in the supply of and inflation in energy, raw and packaging materials cost;
the impact of completing and integrating acquisitions, divestitures and other business portfolio changes;
the uncertainties of litigation and regulatory actions against us;
the impact of changes in currency exchange rates, tax rates, interest rates, debt and equity markets, inflation rates, economic conditions, law, regulation and other external factors; and
the impact of unforeseen business disruptions in one or more of our markets due to political instability, civil disobedience, terrorism, armed hostilities, natural disasters or other calamities.
This discussion of uncertainties is by no means exhaustive but is designed to highlight important factors that may impact our outlook. We disclaim any obligation or intent to update forward-looking statements made by us in order to reflect new information, events or circumstances after the date they are made.

35






Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk
For information regarding our exposure to certain market risk, see Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk, in the 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. There have been no significant changes in our portfolio of financial instruments or market risk exposures from the 2015 year-end.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
a.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the President and Chief Executive Officer and the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of May 1, 2016 (Evaluation Date). Based on such evaluation, the President and Chief Executive Officer and the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
b.
Changes in Internal Controls
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that materially affected, or were likely to materially affect, such control over financial reporting during the quarter ended May 1, 2016.

36






PART II
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased (1)
 
Average
Price Paid
Per Share (2) 
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs (3)
 
Approximate
Dollar Value of
Shares that may yet
be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
($ in Millions) (3)
Period
2/1/16 - 2/29/16

 

 

 
$500
3/1/16 - 3/30/16
379,491

(4) 
$63.22
(4) 
268,991

 
$483
4/1/16 - 5/1/16
130,065

(5) 
$64.74
(5) 
123,565

 
$475
Total
509,556

 
$63.61
 
392,556

 
$475
____________________________________ 
(1) 
Includes 117,000 shares repurchased in open-market transactions to offset the dilutive impact to existing shareholders of issuances under stock compensation plans.
(2) 
Average price paid per share is calculated on a settlement basis and excludes commission.
(3) 
During the third quarter of 2016, we had a publicly announced strategic share repurchase program. Under this program, which was announced on June 23, 2011, our Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to $1 billion of our stock. The program has no expiration date. We also expect to continue our longstanding practice, under a separate 2016 authorization, of purchasing shares sufficient to offset shares issued under our incentive compensation plans.
(4) 
Includes 110,500 shares repurchased in open-market transactions at an average price of $63.34 to offset the dilutive impact to existing shareholders of issuances under stock compensation plans.
(5) 
Includes 6,500 shares repurchased in open-market transactions at an average price of $64.72 to offset the dilutive impact to existing shareholders of issuances under stock compensation plans.

37






Item 6. Exhibits
3
Campbell's By-Laws, effective April 1, 2016, were filed with the SEC on a Form 8-K (SEC file number 1-3822) on March 24, 2016, and are incorporated herein by reference.
 
 
31(a)
Certification of Denise M. Morrison pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
 
 
31(b)
Certification of Anthony P. DiSilvestro pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
 
 
32(a)
Certification of Denise M. Morrison pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
 
 
32(b)
Certification of Anthony P. DiSilvestro pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
 
 
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
101.SCH
XBRL Schema Document
 
 
101.CAL
XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document
 
 
101.DEF
XBRL Definition Linkbase Document
 
 
101.LAB
XBRL Label Linkbase Document
 
 
101.PRE
XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document



38






SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Date: June 7, 2016

 
 
CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
 
 
 
 
 
By: /s/ Anthony P. DiSilvestro
 
 
Anthony P. DiSilvestro
 
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
By: /s/ William J. O'Shea
 
 
William J. O'Shea
 
 
Vice President and Controller
 
 
 



39






INDEX TO EXHIBITS
3
Campbell's By-Laws, effective April 1, 2016, were filed with the SEC on a Form 8-K (SEC file number 1-3822) on March 24, 2016, and are incorporated herein by reference.
 
 
31(a)
Certification of Denise M. Morrison pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
 
 
31(b)
Certification of Anthony P. DiSilvestro pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
 
 
32(a)
Certification of Denise M. Morrison pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
 
 
32(b)
Certification of Anthony P. DiSilvestro pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
 
 
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
101.SCH
XBRL Schema Document
 
 
101.CAL
XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document
 
 
101.DEF
XBRL Definition Linkbase Document
 
 
101.LAB
XBRL Label Linkbase Document
 
 
101.PRE
XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document



40