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EX-32.(B) - EXHIBIT 32.(B) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016xexb32b.htm
EX-32.(A) - EXHIBIT 32.(A) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016xexb32a.htm
EX-31.(B) - EXHIBIT 31.(B) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016xexb31b.htm
EX-31.(A) - EXHIBIT 31.(A) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016xexb31a.htm
EX-23 - EXHIBIT 23 - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016x10xkxexb23.htm
EX-21 - EXHIBIT 21 - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016x10xkxexb21.htm
EX-10.(GG) - EXHIBIT 10.(GG) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016xexb10gg.htm
EX-10.(FF) - EXHIBIT 10.(FF) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016xexb10ff.htm
EX-10.(EE) - EXHIBIT 10.(EE) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016xexb10ee.htm
EX-10.(DD) - EXHIBIT 10.(DD) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312046xexb10dd.htm
EX-10.(O) - EXHIBIT 10.(O) - CAMPBELL SOUP COcpb-7312016x10xkxexb10o.htm

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-K
_________________________________________________________________________________
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended
 
 
 
Commission File Number
July 31, 2016
 
 
 
1-3822
logoa02.jpg
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
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: 
Title of Each Class
 
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
 
 
 
Capital Stock, par value $.0375
 
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None   
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes  No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.  Yes  No
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.  Yes  No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data 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).  Yes  No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.
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 
Accelerated filer
Non-accelerated filer
(Do not check if a smaller  reporting company)
Smaller reporting company 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  No
As of January 29, 2016 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter), the aggregate market value of capital stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $10,943,238,771. There were 307,875,045 shares of capital stock outstanding as of September 14, 2016.
Portions of the Registrant’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on November 16, 2016, are incorporated by reference into Part III.







TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



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PART I
This Form 10-K contains "forward-looking" statements that reflect current expectations regarding future results of operations, economic performance, financial condition and achievements.  Statements that are not current or historical facts, including statements about beliefs and expectations, and containing words such as "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "will," or similar words are forward-looking statements.  These statements reflect current plans and expectations and are based on information currently available. 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. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those discussed in "Risk Factors" and in the "Cautionary Factors That May Affect Future Results" in "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" of this Form 10-K.  Our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements are presented in "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

Item 1. Business
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 food and beverage products. We organized as a business corporation under the laws of New Jersey on November 23, 1922; however, through predecessor organizations, we trace our heritage in the food business back to 1869. Our principal executive offices are in Camden, New Jersey 08103-1799.
Background
Our long-term goal is to build shareholder value by driving sustainable, profitable net sales growth. Guided by our purpose - Real food that matters for life’s moments, we are pursuing a dual strategy of strengthening our core businesses while expanding into faster-growing spaces. We have made a number of enterprise design and portfolio changes over the past several years in support of this strategy, including the following:
In 2016, we implemented a new enterprise design focused mainly on product categories. Under the new structure, our divisions are organized in the following segments: Americas Simple Meals and Beverages; Global Biscuits and Snacks; and Campbell Fresh;
In support of the new structure, we designed and implemented a new Integrated Global Services (IGS) organization to deliver shared services and cost savings across the company. IGS became effective at the beginning of 2016. We are also pursuing other initiatives to reduce costs and increase effectiveness, such as adopting zero-based budgeting over time. See "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" for additional information on these initiatives; and
In 2013, we acquired Bolthouse Farms and Plum. In 2014, we acquired Kelsen and divested our European simple meals business. In 2015, we completed the acquisition of the assets of Garden Fresh Gourmet. See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our recent acquisitions, and Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our divestiture of the European simple meals business.
For additional information on our dual strategy of strengthening our core businesses while expanding into faster-growing spaces, see "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."
Reportable Segments
We manage our businesses in three segments focused mainly on product categories. The segments are:
The Americas Simple Meals and Beverages segment includes the retail and food service 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;
The 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; and
The Campbell Fresh segment includes Bolthouse Farms fresh carrots, carrot ingredients, refrigerated beverages and refrigerated salad dressings, Garden Fresh Gourmet salsa, hummus, dips and tortilla chips, and the U.S. refrigerated soup business.
See also Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding our reportable segments.

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Ingredients and Packaging
The ingredients and packaging materials required for the manufacture of our food products are purchased from various suppliers. These items are subject to fluctuations in price attributable to a number of factors, including changes in crop size, cattle cycles, disease and/or pests, product scarcity, demand for raw materials, commodity market speculation, energy costs, currency fluctuations, government-sponsored agricultural programs, import and export requirements, drought, water scarcity, temperature extremes, scarcity of suitable agricultural land, scarcity of organic ingredients and other factors that may be beyond our control (including natural disasters) during the growing and harvesting seasons. To help reduce some of this price volatility, we use a combination of purchase orders, short- and long-term contracts, inventory management practices and various commodity risk management tools for most of our ingredients and packaging. Ingredient inventories are at a peak during the late fall and decline during the winter and spring. Since many ingredients of suitable quality are available in sufficient quantities only during certain seasons, we make commitments for the purchase of such ingredients in their respective seasons. At this time, we do not anticipate any material restrictions on the availability of ingredients or packaging that would have a significant impact on our businesses. For information on the impact of inflation, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
Customers
In most of our markets, sales and merchandising activities are conducted through our own sales force and/or third-party brokers and distribution partners. In the U.S., Canada and Latin America, our products are generally resold to consumers through retail food chains, mass discounters, mass merchandisers, club stores, convenience stores, drug stores, dollar stores and other retail, commercial and non-commercial establishments. Pepperidge Farm also has a direct-store-delivery distribution model that uses independent contractor distributors. In the Asia Pacific region, our products are generally resold to consumers through retail food chains, convenience stores and other retail, commercial and non-commercial establishments. We make shipments promptly after acceptance of orders.
Our five largest customers accounted for approximately 40% of our consolidated net sales in 2016, 38% in 2015 and 35% in 2014. Our largest customer, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and its affiliates, accounted for approximately 20% of our consolidated net sales in 2016 and 2015, and 19% in 2014. All of our reportable segments sold products to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. or its affiliates. No other customer accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated net sales.
Trademarks and Technology
As of September 14, 2016, we owned over 3,650 trademark registrations and applications in over 160 countries. We believe our trademarks are of material importance to our business. Although the laws vary by jurisdiction, trademarks generally are valid as long as they are in use and/or their registrations are properly maintained and have not been found to have become generic. Trademark registrations generally can be renewed indefinitely as long as the trademarks are in use. We believe that our principal brands, including Arnott's, Bolthouse Farms, Campbell's, Garden Fresh Gourmet, Goldfish, Kjeldsens, Pace, Pepperidge Farm, Plum, Prego, Swanson, and V8, are protected by trademark law in the major markets where they are used.
Although we own a number of valuable patents, we do not regard any segment of our business as being dependent upon any single patent or group of related patents. In addition, we own copyrights, both registered and unregistered, proprietary trade secrets, technology, know-how, processes and other intellectual property rights that are not registered.
Competition
We experience worldwide competition in all of our principal products. This competition arises from numerous competitors of varying sizes across multiple food and beverage categories, and includes producers of generic and private label products, as well as other branded food and beverage manufacturers. All of these competitors vie for trade merchandising support and consumer dollars. The number of competitors cannot be reliably estimated. The principal areas of competition are brand recognition, taste, quality, price, advertising, promotion, convenience and service.
Working Capital
For information relating to our cash flows from operations and working capital items, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
Capital Expenditures
During 2016, our aggregate capital expenditures were $341 million. We expect to spend approximately $350 million for capital projects in 2017. Major capital projects based on planned spend in 2017 include an ongoing Australian multi-pack biscuit capacity expansion project and Pepperidge Farm refrigeration system replacement projects.
Research and Development
During the last three fiscal years, our expenditures on research and development activities relating to new products and the improvement and maintenance of existing products were $124 million in 2016, $117 million in 2015, and $122 million in 2014.

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The increase from 2015 to 2016 was primarily due to increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments and increased costs to support long-term innovation, partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives. The decrease from 2014 to 2015 was primarily due to benefits from cost savings initiatives, partially offset by increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments.
Regulation
The manufacture and sale of consumer food products is highly regulated. In the U.S., our activities are subject to regulation by various federal government agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Federal Trade Commission, Department of Labor, Department of Commerce and Environmental Protection Agency, as well as various state and local agencies. Our business is also regulated by similar agencies outside of the U.S.
Environmental Matters
We have requirements for the operation and design of our facilities that meet or exceed applicable environmental rules and regulations. Of our $341 million in capital expenditures made during 2016, approximately $7 million was for compliance with environmental laws and regulations in the U.S. We further estimate that approximately $18 million of the capital expenditures anticipated during 2017 will be for compliance with U.S. environmental laws and regulations. We believe that continued compliance with existing environmental laws and regulations (both within the U.S. and elsewhere) will not have a material effect on capital expenditures, earnings or our competitive position. In addition, we continue to monitor existing and pending environmental laws and regulations within the U.S. and elsewhere relating to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. While the impact of these laws and regulations cannot be predicted with certainty, we do not believe that compliance with these laws and regulations will have a material effect on capital expenditures, earnings or our competitive position.
Seasonality
Demand for soup products is seasonal, with the fall and winter months usually accounting for the highest sales volume. Sales of Kelsen products are also highest in the fall and winter months due primarily to holiday gift giving, including the Chinese New Year. Demand for our other products is generally evenly distributed throughout the year.
Employees
On July 31, 2016, we had approximately 16,500 employees.
Financial Information
Financial information for our reportable segments and geographic areas is found in Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. For risks attendant to our foreign operations, see “Risk Factors.”
Websites
Our primary corporate website can be found at www.campbellsoupcompany.com. We make available free of charge at this website (under the “Investor Center — Financial Information — SEC Filings” caption) all of our reports (including amendments) filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including our annual report on Form 10-K, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and our current reports on Form 8-K. These reports are made available on the website as soon as reasonably practicable after their filing with, or furnishing to, the Securities and Exchange Commission.
All websites appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are inactive textual references only, and the information in, or accessible through, such websites is not incorporated into this Annual Report on Form 10-K, or into any of our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
In addition to the factors discussed elsewhere in this Report, the following risks and uncertainties could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial also may impair our business operations and financial condition.
Operational Risk Factors
We operate in a highly competitive industry
We operate in the highly competitive food and beverage industry and experience global competition in all of our principal products. The principal areas of competition are brand recognition, taste, quality, price, advertising, promotion, convenience and service. A number of our primary competitors are larger than us and have substantial financial, marketing and other resources. In addition, reduced barriers to entry and easier access to funding may create new competition. A strong competitive response from one or more of these competitors to our marketplace efforts, or a consumer shift towards private label offerings, could result in us reducing pricing, increasing marketing or other expenditures, and/or losing market share.

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Our results are dependent on strengthening our core businesses while diversifying into faster-growing spaces
Our strategy is focused on strengthening our core businesses while diversifying our portfolio into faster-growing spaces. Our core businesses are concentrated in slower-growing center-store categories in traditional retail grocery channels. Factors that may impact our success include:
our ability to identify and capture market share in faster-growing spaces;
our ability to identify and capitalize on customer or consumer trends, including those related to fresh or organic products;
our ability to design and implement effective retail execution plans;
our ability to design and implement effective advertising and marketing programs, including digital programs;
our ability to secure or maintain sufficient shelf space at retailers; and
changes in underlying growth rates of the categories in which we compete.
If we are not successful in addressing these factors, our strategy may not be successful and/or our business or financial results may be adversely impacted.
We may be adversely impacted by a changing customer landscape and the increased significance of some of our customers
Our businesses are largely concentrated in the traditional retail grocery trade. Alternative retail channels, such as dollar stores, drug stores, club stores and Internet-based retailers, have increased their market share. This trend towards alternative channels is expected to continue in the future. If we are not successful in expanding sales in alternative retail channels, our business or financial results may be adversely impacted. In addition, consolidations in the traditional retail grocery trade have produced large, sophisticated customers with increased buying power and negotiating strength who may seek lower prices, increased promotional programs funded by their suppliers or more favorable terms. These customers may use more of their shelf space for their private label products. If we are unable to use our scale, marketing expertise, product innovation and category leadership positions to respond to these customer dynamics, our business or financial results could be adversely impacted.
In 2016, our five largest customers accounted for approximately 40% of our consolidated net sales, with the largest customer, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and its affiliates, accounting for approximately 20% of our consolidated net sales. There can be no assurance that our largest customers will continue to purchase our products in the same mix or quantities or on the same terms as in the past. Disruption of sales to any of these customers, or to any of our other large customers, for an extended period of time could adversely affect our business or financial results.
We may not realize the anticipated benefits from our cost reduction, organizational design or other initiatives
In the beginning of 2016, we implemented a new enterprise design focused mainly on product categories. We are also pursuing related initiatives to reduce costs and increase effectiveness, such as adopting zero-based budgeting over time. These initiatives will require a substantial amount of management and operational resources. Our management team must successfully execute the administrative and operational changes necessary to achieve the anticipated benefits of the initiatives. These and related demands on our resources may divert the organization's attention from other business issues, have adverse effects on existing business relationships with suppliers and customers and impact employee morale. From time-to-time, we may also implement other supply chain, information technology or related initiatives. Our success is partly dependent upon properly executing, and realizing cost savings or other benefits from, these initiatives, which are often complex. Any failure to implement our initiatives could adversely affect our business or financial results.
Our results may be adversely affected by the failure to execute acquisitions and divestitures successfully
We expect to seek acquisitions and investment opportunities. Our ability to meet our objectives with respect to the acquisition of new businesses or the divestiture of existing businesses may depend in part on our ability to identify suitable buyers and sellers, negotiate favorable financial terms and other contractual terms and obtain all necessary regulatory approvals. Potential risks of acquisitions also include:
the inability to integrate acquired businesses efficiently into our existing operations;
diversion of management's attention from other business concerns;
potential loss of key employees and/or customers of acquired businesses;
potential assumption of unknown liabilities;
the inability to implement promptly an effective control environment; and
the risks inherent in entering markets or lines of business with which we have limited or no prior experience.
Acquisitions outside the U.S. may present unique challenges and increase our exposure to risks associated with foreign operations, including foreign currency risks and risks associated with local regulatory regimes. For divestitures, potential risks may also

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include the inability to separate divested businesses or business units from us effectively and efficiently and to reduce or eliminate associated overhead costs.
Disruption to our supply chain could adversely affect our business
Our ability to manufacture and/or sell our products may be impaired by damage or disruption to our manufacturing or distribution capabilities, or to the capabilities of our suppliers or contract manufacturers, due to factors that are hard to predict or beyond our control, such as product or raw material scarcity, adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, fire, terrorism, pandemics, strikes or other events. Production of the agricultural commodities used in our business may also be adversely affected by drought, water scarcity, temperature extremes, scarcity of suitable agricultural land, scarcity of organic ingredients, crop size, cattle cycles, crop disease and/or crop pests. Failure to take adequate steps to mitigate the likelihood or potential impact of such events, or to effectively manage such events if they occur, may adversely affect our business or financial results, particularly in circumstances when a product is sourced from a single supplier or location. Disputes with significant suppliers or contract manufacturers, including disputes regarding pricing or performance, may also adversely affect our ability to manufacture and/or sell our products, as well as our business or financial results.
Our non-U.S. operations pose additional risks to our business
In 2016, approximately 19% of our consolidated net sales were generated outside of the U.S. Our strategy depends in part on expanding our operations in developing markets. Sales outside the U.S. are expected to continue to represent a significant portion of consolidated net sales. Our business or financial performance may be adversely affected due to the risks of doing business in markets outside of the U.S., including but not limited to the following:
unfavorable changes in tariffs, quotas, trade barriers or other export and import restrictions;
the difficulty and/or costs of complying with a wide variety of laws, treaties and regulations, including anti-corruption laws and regulations such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act;
the difficulty and/or costs of designing and implementing an effective control environment across diverse regions and employee bases;
the adverse impact of foreign tax treaties and policies;
political or economic instability, including the possibility of civil unrest, public corruption, armed hostilities or terrorist acts;
the possible nationalization of operations;
the difficulty of enforcing remedies and protecting intellectual property in various jurisdictions; and
restrictions on the transfer of funds to and from countries outside of the U.S., including potentially adverse tax consequences.
In addition, we hold assets and incur liabilities, generate revenue, and pay expenses in a variety of currencies other than the U.S. dollar, primarily the Australian dollar and the Canadian dollar. Our consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars, and we must translate our assets, liabilities, sales and expenses into U.S. dollars for external reporting purposes. As a result, changes in the value of the U.S. dollar due to fluctuations in currency exchange rates or currency exchange controls may materially and adversely affect the value of these items in our consolidated financial statements, even if their value has not changed in their local currency.
Our results may be adversely impacted by increases in the price of raw and packaging materials
The raw and packaging materials used in our business include tomato paste, grains, beef, poultry, vegetables, steel, glass, paper and resin. Many of these materials are subject to price fluctuations from a number of factors, including crop size, cattle cycles, disease and/or pests, product scarcity, demand for raw materials, commodity market speculation, energy costs, currency fluctuations, government-sponsored agricultural programs, import and export requirements, drought, water scarcity, temperature extremes, scarcity of suitable agricultural land, scarcity of organic ingredients and other factors that may be beyond our control (including natural disasters). To the extent any of these factors result in an increase in raw and packaging material prices, we may not be able to offset such increases through productivity or price increases or through our commodity hedging activity.
Price increases may not be sufficient to cover increased costs, or may result in declines in sales volume due to pricing elasticity in the marketplace
We intend to pass along to customers some or all cost increases in raw and packaging materials and other inputs through increases in the selling prices of, or decreases in the packaging sizes of, some of our products. Higher product prices or smaller packaging sizes may result in reductions in sales volume. To the extent the price increases or packaging size decreases are not sufficient to offset increased raw and packaging materials and other input costs, and/or if they result in significant decreases in sales volume, our business results and financial condition may be adversely affected.

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If our food products become adulterated or are mislabeled, we might need to recall those items, and we may experience product liability claims and damage to our reputation
We may need to recall some of our products if they become adulterated or if they are mislabeled, and we may also be liable if the consumption of any of our products causes injury to consumers. A widespread product recall could result in significant losses due to the costs of a recall, the destruction of product inventory, and lost sales due to the unavailability of product for a period of time. We could also suffer losses from a significant adverse product liability judgment. A significant product recall or product liability claim could also result in adverse publicity, damage to our reputation, and a loss of consumer confidence in the safety and/or quality of our products, ingredients or packaging. In addition, if another company recalls or experiences negative publicity related to a product in a category in which we compete, consumers might reduce their overall consumption of products in this category.
Our results may be adversely impacted if consumers do not maintain their favorable perception of our brands
We have a number of iconic brands with significant value. Maintaining and continually enhancing the value of these brands is critical to the success of our business. Brand value is based in large part on consumer perceptions. Success in promoting and enhancing brand value depends in large part on our ability to provide high-quality products. Brand value could diminish significantly due to a number of factors, including consumer perception that we have acted in an irresponsible manner, adverse publicity about our products, packaging and/or ingredients (whether or not valid), our failure to maintain the quality of our products, the failure of our products to deliver consistently positive consumer experiences, or the products becoming unavailable to consumers. The growing use of social and digital media by consumers increases the speed and extent that information and opinions can be shared. Negative posts or comments about us, our brands, products or packaging on social or digital media could seriously damage our brands and reputation. If we do not maintain the favorable perception of our brands, our results could be adversely impacted.
We may be adversely impacted by inadequacies in, or security breaches of, our information technology systems
Our information technology systems are critically important to our operations. We rely on our information technology systems (some of which are outsourced to third parties) to manage the data, communications and business processes for all of our functions, including our marketing, sales, manufacturing, logistics, customer service, accounting and administrative functions. If we do not allocate and effectively manage the resources necessary to build, sustain and protect an appropriate technology infrastructure, our business or financial results could be adversely impacted. Furthermore, our information technology systems may be vulnerable to material security breaches (including the access to or acquisition of customer, consumer or other confidential data), cyber-based attacks or other material system failures. If we are unable to prevent or adequately respond to and resolve these events, our operations may be impacted, and we may suffer other adverse consequences such as reputational damage, litigation, remediation costs and/or penalties under various data privacy laws and regulations. Although unauthorized users have attempted and continue to attempt to infiltrate our information technology systems, we have not detected a material security breach and all immaterial security breaches we have detected have been successfully remediated.
An impairment of the carrying value of goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible assets could adversely affect our financial results and net worth
As of July 31, 2016, we had goodwill of $2.263 billion and other indefinite-lived intangible assets of $927 million. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and not amortized, but are tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. We test goodwill at the reporting unit level by comparing the carrying value of the net assets of the reporting unit, including goodwill, to the unit's fair value. Similarly, we test indefinite-lived intangible assets by comparing the fair value of the assets to their carrying values. Fair value for both goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets is determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis. If the carrying values of goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets exceed their fair value, the goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets are considered impaired and reduced to fair value. Factors that could result in an impairment include a change in revenue growth rates, operating margins, weighted average cost of capital, future economic and market conditions or assumed royalty rates.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, as part of our annual review of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, we recognized a non-cash impairment charge of $141 million ($127 million after tax or $.41 per share) on the intangible assets of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit, which is part of the Campbell Fresh segment. See Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
We may be required in the future to record additional impairment of the carrying value of goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible assets, which could adversely affect our financial results and net worth.
Our intellectual property rights are valuable, and any inability to protect them could reduce the value of our products and brands
We consider our intellectual property rights, particularly our trademarks, to be a significant and valuable aspect of our business. We protect our intellectual property rights through a combination of patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret protection, contractual agreements and policing of third-party misuses of our intellectual property. Our failure to obtain or adequately protect

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our intellectual property or any change in law that lessens or removes the current legal protections of our intellectual property may diminish our competitiveness and adversely affect our business and financial results.
Competing intellectual property claims that impact our brands or products may arise unexpectedly. Any litigation or disputes regarding intellectual property may be costly and time-consuming and may divert the attention of our management and key personnel from our business operations. We also may be subject to significant damages or injunctions against development, launch and sale of certain products. Any of these occurrences may harm our business and financial results.
We may be adversely impacted by increased liabilities and costs related to our defined benefit pension plans
We sponsor a number of defined benefit pension plans for employees in the U.S. and various non-U.S. locations. The major defined benefit pension plans are funded with trust assets invested in a globally diversified portfolio of securities and other investments. Changes in regulatory requirements or the market value of plan assets, investment returns, interest rates and mortality rates may affect the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans and cause volatility in the net periodic benefit cost, future funding requirements of the plans and the funded status as recorded on the balance sheet. A significant increase in our obligations or future funding requirements could have a material adverse effect on our financial results.
We may not be able to attract and retain the highly skilled people we need to support our business 
We depend on the skills and continued service of key personnel, including our experienced management team. In addition, our ability to achieve our strategic and operating goals depends on our ability to identify, hire, train and retain qualified individuals. We compete with other companies both within and outside of our industry for talented personnel, and we may lose key personnel or fail to attract, train and retain other talented personnel. Any such loss or failure may adversely affect our business or financial results. In addition, activities related to identifying, recruiting, hiring and integrating qualified individuals may require significant time and expense. We may not be able to locate suitable replacements for any key employees who leave, or offer employment to potential replacements on reasonable terms, each of which may adversely affect our business and financial results.
Market Conditions and Other General Risk Factors
We face risks related to recession, financial and credit market disruptions and other economic conditions
Customer and consumer demand for our products may be impacted by weak economic conditions, recession, equity market volatility or other negative economic factors in the U.S. or other nations. Similarly, disruptions in financial and/or credit markets may impact our ability to manage normal commercial relationships with our customers, suppliers and creditors. In addition, changes in tax or interest rates in the U.S. or other nations, whether due to recession, financial and credit market disruptions or other reasons, could impact us.
Adverse changes in the global climate or extreme weather conditions could adversely affect our business or operations
Our business or financial results could be adversely affected by changing global temperatures or weather patterns or by extreme or unusual weather conditions. Adverse changes in the global climate or extreme or unusual weather conditions could:
unfavorably impact the cost or availability of raw or packaging materials, especially if such events have an adverse impact on agricultural productivity or on the supply of water;
disrupt our ability, or the ability of our suppliers or contract manufacturers, to manufacture or distribute our products;
disrupt the retail operations of our customers; or
unfavorably impact the demand for, or the consumer's ability to purchase, our products.
In addition, there is growing concern that the release of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere may be impacting global temperatures and weather patterns and contributing to extreme or unusual weather conditions. This growing concern may result in more regional, federal, and/or global legal and regulatory requirements to reduce or mitigate the effects of greenhouse gases. Adoption of such additional regulation may result in increased compliance costs, capital expenditures and other financial obligations that could adversely affect our business or financial results.
Legal and Regulatory Risk Factors
We may be adversely impacted by legal and regulatory proceedings or claims
We are party to a variety of legal and regulatory proceedings and claims arising out of the normal course of business. Since these actions are inherently uncertain, there is no guarantee that we will be successful in defending ourselves against such proceedings or claims, or that our assessment of the materiality or immateriality of these matters, including any reserves taken in connection with such matters, will be consistent with the ultimate outcome of such proceedings or claims. The marketing of food products has come under increased regulatory scrutiny in recent years, and the food industry has been subject to an increasing number of proceedings and claims relating to alleged false or deceptive marketing under federal, state and foreign laws or regulations. In addition, the independent contractor distribution model, which is used by Pepperidge Farm, has come under increased legal and regulatory scrutiny in recent years. We have a few putative state law class action lawsuits challenging the independent

9






contractor classification of a small percentage of the total Pepperidge Farm distribution network. We are contesting class certification and the merits in each lawsuit and plan to defend against these claims vigorously. In the event we are unable to successfully defend ourselves against these proceedings or claims, or if our assessment of the materiality of these proceedings or claims proves inaccurate, our business or financial results may be adversely affected. In addition, our reputation could be damaged by allegations made in proceedings or claims (even if untrue).
Increased regulation or changes in law could adversely affect our business or financial results
The manufacture and marketing of food products is extensively regulated. Various laws and regulations govern the processing, packaging, storage, distribution, marketing, advertising, labeling, quality and safety of our food products, as well as the health and safety of our employees and the protection of the environment. In the U.S., we are subject to regulation by various government agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Federal Trade Commission, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as various state and local agencies. We are also regulated by similar agencies outside the U.S. Changes in legal or regulatory requirements (such as new food safety requirements and revised nutrition facts labeling and serving size regulations), or evolving interpretations of existing legal or regulatory requirements, may result in increased compliance cost, capital expenditures and other financial obligations that could adversely affect our business or financial results.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 2. Properties
Our principal executive offices are company-owned and located in Camden, New Jersey. The following table sets forth our principal manufacturing facilities and the business segment that primarily uses each of the facilities:
Principal Manufacturing Facilities
Inside the U.S.
 
 
 
 
California
 
Michigan
 
Texas
Bakersfield (CF)
 
Ferndale (CF)
 
Paris (ASMB)
Dixon (ASMB)
 
Grand Rapids (CF)
 
Utah
Stockton (ASMB)
 
New Jersey
 
Richmond (GBS)
Connecticut
 
East Brunswick (GBS)
 
Washington
Bloomfield (GBS)
 
North Carolina
 
Everett (CF)
Florida
 
Maxton (ASMB)
 
Prosser (CF)
Lakeland (GBS)
 
Ohio
 
Wisconsin
Illinois
 
Napoleon (ASMB)
 
Milwaukee (ASMB)
Downers Grove (GBS)
 
Willard (GBS)
 
 
 
 
Pennsylvania
 
 
 
 
Denver (GBS)
 
 
 
 
Downingtown (GBS)
 
 
Outside the U.S.
 
 
 
 
Australia
 
Canada
 
Indonesia
Huntingwood (GBS)
 
Toronto (ASMB)
 
Jawa Barat (GBS)
Marleston (GBS)
 
Denmark
 
Malaysia
Shepparton (GBS)
 
Nørre Snede (GBS)
 
Selangor Darul Ehsan (GBS)
Virginia (GBS)
 
Ribe (GBS)
 
 
____________________________________ 
ASMB - Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
GBS - Global Biscuits and Snacks
CF - Campbell Fresh
Each of the foregoing manufacturing facilities is company-owned, except the Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia, and the East Brunswick, New Jersey, facilities, which are leased. We also maintain business unit offices in Norwalk, Connecticut; Santa Monica, California; Emeryville, California; Toronto, Canada; Nørre Snede, Denmark; and North Strathfield, Australia.

10






We believe that our manufacturing and processing plants are well maintained and, together with facilities operated by our contract manufacturers, are generally adequate to support the current operations of the businesses.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
None.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
Executive Officers of the Company
The following is a list of our executive officers as of September 14, 2016:
Name
Present Title & Business Experience
Age
Year First
Appointed
Executive
Officer
Mark R. Alexander
Senior Vice President. We have employed Mr. Alexander in an executive or managerial capacity for at least five years.
52
2009
Carlos J. Barroso
Senior Vice President. President and Founder of CJB and Associates, LLC, an R&D consulting firm (2009 - 2013).
57
2013
Edward L. Carolan
Senior Vice President. We have employed Mr. Carolan in an executive or managerial capacity for at least five years.
47
2015
Adam G. Ciongoli
Senior Vice President and General Counsel. Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Lincoln Financial Group (2012 - 2015) and Group General Counsel and Secretary of Willis Group Holdings, PLC (2007 - 2012).
48
2015
Anthony P. DiSilvestro
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. We have employed Mr. DiSilvestro in an executive or managerial capacity for at least five years.
57
2004
Jeffrey T. Dunn
Senior Vice President. President of Bolthouse Farms (2008 - 2015).
59
2015
Luca Mignini
Senior Vice President. Chief Executive Officer of the Findus Italy division of IGLO Group (2010 - 2012).
54
2013
Denise M. Morrison
President and Chief Executive Officer. We have employed Ms. Morrison in an executive or managerial capacity for at least five years.
62
2003
Robert W. Morrissey
Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. We have employed Mr. Morrissey in an executive or managerial capacity for at least five years.
58
2012
Prior to Mr. Dunn's tenure with Bolthouse Farms, he was Chief Executive Officer of Ubiquity Brands, LLC. Ubiquity Brands was the parent company of Jay Foods, Inc., a maker of salty snack foods, that voluntarily filed for bankruptcy under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in October 2007.
All of the executive officers were appointed at the November 2015 meeting of the Board of Directors.
PART II
Item 5.
Market for Registrant’s Capital Stock, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Market for Registrant’s Capital Stock
Our capital stock is listed and principally traded on the New York Stock Exchange. On September 14, 2016, there were 20,123 holders of record of our capital stock. Market price and dividend information with respect to our capital stock are set forth in Note 21 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Future dividends will be dependent upon future earnings, financial requirements and other factors.
Return to Shareholders* Performance Graph
The information contained in this Return to Shareholders Performance Graph section shall not be deemed to be "soliciting material" or "filed" or incorporated by reference in future filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or subject to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), except to the extent we specifically incorporate it by reference into a document filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act.

11






The following graph compares the cumulative total shareholder return (TSR) on our stock with the cumulative total return of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index (the S&P 500) and the Standard & Poor’s Packaged Foods Index (the S&P Packaged Foods Group). The graph assumes that $100 was invested on July 29, 2011, in each of our stock, the S&P 500 and the S&P Packaged Foods Group, and that all dividends were reinvested. The total cumulative dollar returns shown on the graph represent the value that such investments would have had on July 29, 2016.

cpb-7312016_chartx00024.jpg

* Stock appreciation plus dividend reinvestment.
 
 
2011
 
2012
 
2013
 
2014
 
2015
 
2016
Campbell
 
100
 
104
 
152
 
140
 
169
 
218
S&P 500
 
100
 
110
 
137
 
159
 
177
 
187
S&P Packaged Foods Group
 
100
 
109
 
148
 
157
 
196
 
230
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Period
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
 
Average
Price Paid
Per Share (1) 
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs (2)
 
Approximate
Dollar Value of
Shares that may yet
be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
($ in Millions) (2)
5/2/16 - 5/31/16

 

 

 
$475
6/1/16 - 6/30/16
275,081

(3) 
$62.13
(3) 
273,511

 
$458
7/1/16 - 7/29/16
119,122

 
$67.14
 
119,122

 
$450
Total
394,203

(3) 
$63.64
(3) 
392,633

 
$450
____________________________________ 
(1) 
Average price paid per share is calculated on a settlement basis and excludes commission.
(2) 
During the fourth 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. Pursuant to our longstanding practice, under a separate 2016 authorization, we expect to continue purchasing shares sufficient to offset shares issued under our incentive compensation plans.

12






(3) 
Includes 1,570 shares repurchased in open-market transactions at an average price of $61.56 to offset the dilutive impact to existing shareholders of issuances under stock compensation plans.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data
Fiscal Year
2016(1)
 
2015(2)
 
2014(3)
 
2013(4)
 
2012(5)
(Millions, except per share amounts)
 
Summary of Operations
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
$
7,961

 
$
8,082

 
$
8,268

 
$
8,052

 
$
7,175

Earnings before interest and taxes
960

 
1,054

 
1,267

 
1,474

 
826

Earnings before taxes
849

 
949

 
1,148

 
1,349

 
720

Earnings from continuing operations
563

 
666

 
774

 
934

 
512

Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations

 

 
81

 
(231
)
 
40

Net earnings
563

 
666

 
855

 
703

 
552

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
563

 
666

 
866

 
712

 
562

Financial Position
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Plant assets - net
$
2,407

 
$
2,347

 
$
2,318

 
$
2,260

 
$
2,127

Total assets
7,837

 
8,077

 
8,100

 
8,290

 
6,532

Total debt
3,533

 
4,082

 
4,003

 
4,438

 
2,781

Total equity
1,533

 
1,377

 
1,602

 
1,192

 
909

Per Share Data
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company - basic
$
1.82

 
$
2.13

 
$
2.50

 
$
3.00

 
$
1.63

Earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company - assuming dilution
1.81

 
2.13

 
2.48

 
2.97

 
1.62

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company - basic
1.82

 
2.13

 
2.76

 
2.27

 
1.76

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company - assuming dilution
1.81

 
2.13

 
2.74

 
2.25

 
1.75

Dividends declared
1.248

 
1.248

 
1.248

 
1.16

 
1.16

Other Statistics
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital expenditures
$
341

 
$
380

 
$
347

 
$
336

 
$
323

Weighted average shares outstanding - basic
309

 
312

 
314

 
314

 
317

Weighted average shares outstanding - assuming dilution
311

 
313

 
316

 
317

 
319

____________________________________ 
(All per share amounts below are on a diluted basis)
In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (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. We adopted the guidance in 2016 and retrospectively adjusted all prior periods.
In November 2015, the FASB issued guidance that requires deferred tax liabilities and assets to be classified as noncurrent in the balance sheet. We adopted the guidance in 2016 on a prospective basis and modified the presentation of deferred taxes in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of July 31, 2016.
The 2014 fiscal year consisted of 53 weeks. All other periods had 52 weeks.
(1) 
The 2016 earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company were impacted by the following: a restructuring charge and administrative expenses of $49 million ($.16 per share) associated with restructuring and cost savings initiatives; losses of $200 million ($.64 per share) associated with mark-to-market adjustments for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans; a gain of $25 million ($.08 per share) associated with a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition; and an impairment charge of $127 million ($.41 per share) related to the intangible assets of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit.
(2) 
The 2015 earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company were impacted by the following: a restructuring charge and administrative expenses of $78 million ($.25 per share) associated with restructuring and cost savings initiatives and losses of $87 million ($.28 per share) associated with mark-to-market adjustments for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans.

13






(3) 
The 2014 earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company were impacted by the following: a restructuring charge and related costs of $36 million ($.11 per share) associated with restructuring initiatives; losses of $19 million ($.06 per share) associated with mark-to-market adjustments for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans; a loss of $6 million ($.02 per share) on foreign exchange forward contracts used to hedge the proceeds from the sale of the European simple meals business; $7 million ($.02 per share) tax expense associated with the sale of the European simple meals business; and the estimated impact of the additional week of $25 million ($.08 per share). Earnings from discontinued operations included a gain of $72 million ($.23 per share) on the sale of the European simple meals business.
(4) 
The 2013 earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company were impacted by the following: a restructuring charge and related costs of $87 million ($.27 per share) associated with restructuring initiatives; gains of $183 million ($.58 per share) associated with mark-to-market adjustments for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans; and $7 million ($.02 per share) of transaction costs related to the acquisition of Bolthouse Farms. Earnings from discontinued operations were impacted by an impairment charge on the intangible assets of the simple meals business in Europe of $263 million ($.83 per share) and tax expense of $18 million ($.06 per share) representing taxes on the difference between the book value and tax basis of the business.
(5) 
The 2012 earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company were impacted by the following: a restructuring charge of $4 million ($.01 per share); losses of $252 million ($.78 per share) associated with mark-to-market adjustments for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans; and $3 million ($.01 per share) of transaction costs related to the acquisition of Bolthouse Farms. Earnings from discontinued operations included a restructuring charge of $2 million ($.01 per share).

Selected Financial Data should be read in conjunction with the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
OVERVIEW
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with, our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements presented in "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," as well as the information contained in "Risk Factors."  
Unless otherwise stated, the terms "we," "us," "our" and the "company" refer to Campbell Soup Company and its consolidated subsidiaries.
As of the beginning of 2016, we manage 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; Global Biscuits and Snacks; and Campbell Fresh. See "Business - Reportable Segments" for a description of the products included in each segment. In 2016, we 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.
Relevant financial information has been retrospectively adjusted to reflect the changes in segment reporting and accounting policy.
Executive Summary
We are a manufacturer and marketer of high-quality, branded food and beverage products.
We operate in a highly competitive industry and experience global competition for all of our principal products. The principal areas of competition are brand recognition, taste, quality, price, advertising, promotion, convenience and service. To grow and maintain our market positions, we focus on bringing new products and innovations to market that meet evolving consumer needs and preferences, while maintaining the quality and appeal of our existing products. We continue to optimize our manufacturing

14






and other operations and invest in our brands through ongoing research and development, advertising, marketing and consumer promotions.
Over the last several years, we have diversified our product offerings through several acquisitions and enhanced our focus through a divestiture. In 2013, we acquired Bolthouse Farms and Plum. In 2014, we acquired Kelsen and divested our European simple meals business. In 2015, we completed the acquisition of the assets of Garden Fresh Gourmet. See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our recent acquisitions, and Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on our divestiture of the European simple meals business.
Industry Trends
Our businesses are being influenced by a variety of trends that we anticipate will continue in the future, including changing demographics, consumer tastes, opinions and behaviors. Millennials and Generation Z are replacing Baby Boomers as the key influencers of societal and cultural norms in the U.S. In addition, there is a leveling or shrinking middle class in developed markets, while there is a growing middle class in developing markets.
Consumers increasingly seek products that they deem healthy, including fresh, organic and functional foods. While demanding products with these qualities, consumers have become more distrustful of large corporations and other large institutions. Traditional retailers are responding by developing small format and "neighborhood" stores and expanding shelf space for purpose-driven brands. Consumers also continue to gravitate toward value offerings, which is demonstrated by the increase in lower-priced retailers, such as dollar stores, and the growth of private-label offerings.
Digital technology is changing the way consumers purchase food. Although e-commerce represents only a small percent of total food sales today, we anticipate it will accelerate rapidly through the growth of pure-play e-tailers, increased focus of brick and mortar retailers on e-commerce and the mainstreaming of meal delivery services. Consumers are also increasingly using digital technology to customize their diets for their individual lifestyle, physiology and health goals.
Key Strategies
Our long-term goal is to build shareholder value by driving sustainable, profitable net sales growth. Guided by our purpose - Real food that matters for life’s moments, we are pursuing a dual strategy of strengthening our core businesses while expanding into faster-growing spaces.
New Structure
In 2016, we implemented a new enterprise design that better aligns with our dual strategy. Under the new structure, our divisions are now organized in three segments focused mainly on product categories: Americas Simple Meals and Beverages; Global Biscuits and Snacks; and Campbell Fresh. In support of our new structure, we designed and implemented a new Integrated Global Services (IGS) organization to deliver shared services and cost savings across the company. We are also pursuing other initiatives to reduce costs, such as adopting zero-based budgeting over time. In total, we expect our cost savings initiatives to generate approximately $300 million in annual cost savings by the end of fiscal 2018. These savings are above and beyond our existing supply-chain productivity initiatives. We expect to reinvest a portion of these savings into the businesses during 2017. See "Restructuring Charges and Cost Savings Initiatives" for additional information on these initiatives.
Strategic Imperatives
With this new enterprise design in place, we are responding to the above-described industry trends by continuing to focus on four key strategic imperatives:
Elevating trust through real food, transparency and sustainability;
Building our digital marketing and e-commerce capabilities;
Diversifying our portfolio in health and well-being; and
Expanding our presence in developing markets over time.
Elevating Trust through Real Food, Transparency and Sustainability
Our focus is to strengthen the trust of our consumers and customers that our products are real food made with desirable ingredients and crafted using ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. We continue to do this by changing recipes or removing ingredients from our food, such as artificial flavors and colors. Our www.whatsinmyfood.com website promotes transparency by providing consumers with a wide range of details about how many of our foods and beverages are made and the choices behind the ingredients we use in those products. This site includes all of our major products in the U.S. and Canada, with designs to expand globally over the next two fiscal years. In addition, we support and remain committed to mandatory national genetically modified organism labeling.

15






Building Digital Marketing and E-Commerce
We are responding to the growing consumer shift to digital and mobile technologies by focusing a larger percentage of our marketing efforts on digital marketing and e-commerce. We believe these efforts will position us well to grow with the expanding e-commerce market. Although we are shifting our marketing efforts to digital and mobile platforms, we continue to pursue a multi-channel approach to ensure our products are available to consumers at traditional storefront retailers, as well as online retailers.
Diversifying our Portfolio in Health and Well-being
Capitalizing on recent consumer and retailer trends in health and well-being, we are increasing our focus on fresh and healthy foods. We plan to expand our product offerings in key growth areas, such as in the packaged fresh category and with organic and clean label products. In addition, we will focus on naturally functional foods by leveraging our vegetable and whole grain capabilities.
Expanding Presence in Developing Markets Over Time
We plan to focus on expanding our presence in developing markets, especially our Global Biscuits and Snacks business in Asia. We will aim to increase the household penetration and frequency of purchase of our iconic brands, Goldfish, Kjeldsens and Tim Tam, in their home markets while expanding into new geographies.
To support these four imperatives, we will continue to pursue different models of innovation, including smart external development, disciplined mergers and acquisitions, strategic partnerships and venture investing.
Summary of Results
This Summary of Results provides significant highlights from the discussion and analysis that follows.
There were 52 weeks in 2016 and 2015. There were 53 weeks in 2014.
Net sales decreased 1% in 2016 to $7.961 billion, primarily due to the impact of currency translation and lower volume, partially offset by the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet and higher selling prices.
Gross profit, as a percent of sales, increased to 34.9% from 34.4% a year ago. The increase was primarily due to productivity improvements and higher selling prices, partially offset by increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments, and cost inflation, supply chain costs and other factors.
Administrative expenses increased 7% to $641 million from $601 million a year ago. The increase was primarily due to increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments, and higher costs related to the implementation of the new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives, partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives. Excluding losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments and costs related to the implementation of new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives, administrative expenses decreased due to the benefits from cost savings initiatives, partially offset by inflation.
Other expenses / (income) increased to $131 million in 2016 from $24 million in 2015, primarily due to a non-cash impairment charge on the intangible assets of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit, partially offset by a gain from the settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition.
Earnings per share were $1.81 in 2016, compared to $2.13 a year ago. The current and prior year included expenses of $1.13 and $.53 per share, respectively, from items impacting comparability as discussed below.
Cash flow from operations was $1.463 billion in 2016, compared to $1.182 billion in 2015. The increase in 2016 was primarily due to higher cash earnings and lower working capital requirements.
Net Earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company - 2016 Compared with 2015
The following items impacted the comparability of earnings and earnings per share:
In 2015, we implemented a new enterprise design and initiatives to reduce costs and to streamline our organizational structure. In 2016, we recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $35 million and implementation costs and other related costs of $47 million in Administrative expenses related to these initiatives. In 2016, we also recorded a reduction to pre-tax restructuring charges of $4 million related to the 2014 initiatives. The aggregate after-tax impact in 2016 of restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs was $49 million, or $.16 per share. In 2015, we recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $102 million and implementation costs of $22 million recorded in Administrative expenses related to the 2015 initiatives (aggregate impact of $78 million after tax, or $.25 per share). See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and "Restructuring Charges and Cost Savings Initiatives" for additional information;
In 2016, we recognized losses of $313 million in Costs and expenses ($200 million after tax, or $.64 per share) associated with mark-to-market adjustments for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans. In 2015, we recognized losses of $138 million in Costs and expenses ($87 million after tax, or $.28 per share) associated with mark-to-market adjustments for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans;

16






In 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; and
In the fourth quarter of 2016, as part of our annual review of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, we recognized a non-cash impairment charge of $141 million in Other expenses / (income) ($127 million after tax, or $.41 per share) on the intangible assets of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit, which is part of the Campbell Fresh segment. See Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
The items impacting comparability are summarized below:
 
2016
 
2015
(Millions, except per share amounts)
Earnings
Impact
 
EPS
Impact
 
Earnings
Impact
 
EPS
Impact
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
563

 
$
1.81

 
$
666

 
$
2.13

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs
$
(49
)
 
$
(.16
)
 
$
(78
)
 
$
(.25
)
Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
(200
)
 
(.64
)
 
(87
)
 
(.28
)
Claim settlement
25

 
.08

 

 

Impairment charge
(127
)
 
(.41
)
 

 

Impact of items on Net earnings
$
(351
)
 
$
(1.13
)
 
$
(165
)
 
$
(.53
)
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company were $563 million ($1.81 per share) in 2016, compared to $666 million ($2.13 per share) in 2015. After adjusting for items impacting comparability, earnings increased primarily due to an improved gross profit performance, lower administrative expenses and lower marketing and selling expenses, partially offset by the negative impact of currency translation and a higher effective tax rate.
Earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company - 2015 Compared with 2014
In addition to the 2015 items that impacted comparability of Earnings from continuing operations discussed above, the following items impacted the comparability of earnings and earnings per share:
In 2014, we recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $54 million ($33 million after tax, or $.10 per share) associated with initiatives to streamline our salaried workforce in North America and our workforce in the Asia Pacific region; restructure manufacturing and streamline operations for our soup and broth business in China; improve supply chain efficiency in Australia; and reduce overhead across the organization. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and "Restructuring Charges and Cost Savings Initiatives" for additional information;
In 2013, we implemented several initiatives to improve our U.S. supply chain cost structure and increase asset utilization across our U.S. thermal plant network; expand access to manufacturing and distribution capabilities in Mexico; improve our Pepperidge Farm bakery supply chain cost structure; and reduce overhead in North America. In 2014, we recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $1 million and restructuring-related costs of $3 million in Cost of products sold (aggregate impact of $3 million after tax, or $.01 per share) related to the 2013 initiatives. See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and "Restructuring Charges and Cost Savings Initiatives" for additional information;
In 2014, we recognized losses of $31 million in Costs and expenses ($19 million after tax, or $.06 per share) associated with mark-to-market adjustments for defined benefit pension and postretirement plans; and
On October 28, 2013, we completed the sale of our simple meals business in Europe. In 2014, we recorded a loss of $9 million ($6 million after tax, or $.02 per share) on foreign exchange forward contracts used to hedge the proceeds from the sale of our European simple meals business. The loss was included in Other expenses / (income). In addition, we recorded tax expense of $7 million ($.02 per share) associated with the sale of the business.

17






The items impacting comparability are summarized below:
 
2015
 
2014
(Millions, except per share amounts)
Earnings
Impact
 
EPS
Impact
 
Earnings
Impact
 
EPS
Impact
Earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
666

 
$
2.13

 
$
785

 
$
2.48

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructuring charges and related costs
$
(78
)
 
$
(.25
)
 
$
(36
)
 
$
(.11
)
Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
(87
)
 
(.28
)
 
(19
)
 
(.06
)
Loss on foreign exchange forward contracts

 

 
(6
)
 
(.02
)
Tax expense associated with sale of business

 

 
(7
)
 
(.02
)
Impact of items on earnings from continuing operations(1)
$
(165
)
 
$
(.53
)
 
$
(68
)
 
$
(.22
)
____________________________________
(1) 
The sum of the individual per share amounts may not add due to rounding.
Earnings from continuing operations were $666 million ($2.13 per share) in 2015, compared to $785 million ($2.48 per share) in 2014. The additional week contributed approximately $25 million ($.08 per share) to earnings from continuing operations in 2014. After adjusting for the 53rd week and other items impacting comparability, earnings decreased primarily due to a lower gross margin percentage and the impact of currency translation, partially offset by an increase in sales on a constant currency basis, lower marketing and selling expenses, lower interest expense and a lower effective tax rate. Currency translation had a negative impact of $.06 on earnings per share in 2015. Earnings per share benefited from a reduction in the weighted average diluted shares outstanding, primarily due to share repurchases under our strategic share repurchase program.
We sold our European simple meals business on October 28, 2013. See "Discontinued Operations" for additional information.
Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
We own a 60% controlling interest in a joint venture formed with Swire Pacific Limited to support the development of our soup and broth business in China. The joint venture began operations on January 31, 2011. In 2014, together with our joint venture partner, we agreed to restructure manufacturing and streamline operations for our soup and broth business in China. The after-tax restructuring charge attributable to the noncontrolling interest was $5 million.
We own a 70% controlling interest in a Malaysian food products manufacturing company.
In addition, beginning in 2016, we own a 99.8% interest in Acre Venture Partners, L.P., a limited partnership formed to make venture capital investments in innovative new companies in food and food-related industries. See Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
The noncontrolling interests' share in the net earnings (loss) was included in Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.
DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Sales
An analysis of net sales by reportable segment follows:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
% Change
(Millions)
2016
 
2015
 
2014
 
2016/2015
 
2015/2014
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
4,380

 
$
4,483

 
$
4,588

 
(2)%
 
(2)%
Global Biscuits and Snacks
2,564

 
2,631

 
2,725

 
(3)
 
(3)
Campbell Fresh
1,017

 
968

 
955

 
5
 
1
 
$
7,961

 
$
8,082

 
$
8,268

 
(1)%
 
(2)%

18






An analysis of percent change of net sales by reportable segment follows:
2016 versus 2015
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
Global Biscuits and Snacks(2)
 
Campbell Fresh(2)
 
Total
Volume and Mix
(2)%
 
1%
 
(3)%
 
(1)%
Price and Sales Allowances
1
 
1
 
 
1
Increased Promotional Spending(1)
 
 
(1)
 
Currency
(1)
 
(4)
 
 
(2)
Acquisitions
 
 
10
 
1
 
(2)%
 
(3)%
 
5%
 
(1)%

2015 versus 2014
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
Global Biscuits and Snacks(2)
 
Campbell Fresh
 
Total(2)
Volume and Mix
—%
 
2%
 
2%
 
—%
Price and Sales Allowances
 
1
 
 
1
Currency
(1)
 
(5)
 
 
(2)
Acquisitions
 
 
1
 
Estimated Impact of 53rd week
(1)
 
(2)
 
(2)
 
(2)
 
(2)%
 
(3)%
 
1%
 
(2)%
__________________________________________
(1)
Represents revenue reductions from trade promotion and consumer coupon redemption programs.
(2)
Sum of the individual amounts does not add due to rounding.
In 2016, Americas Simple Meals and Beverages sales decreased 2%. Sales decreased primarily due to declines in soup and V8 beverages, partially offset by 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 were comparable to the prior year.
Sales of ready-to-serve soups declined 13%. The sales decrease in ready-to-serve soups was also due to marketing execution issues on Campbell's Chunky soups.
Broth sales increased 1%.
V8 beverages continued to be under pressure from competition from specialty and packaged fresh beverages.
In 2015, Americas Simple Meals and Beverages sales decreased 2%. U.S. soup sales declined 3%, with 1% due to the impact of the 53rd week. Further details of U.S. soup include:
Sales of condensed soups decreased 3%, with declines in both eating and cooking varieties. Lower volumes were partially offset by higher selling prices and reduced promotional spending.
Sales of ready-to-serve soups decreased 5%.
Broth sales increased 3% due to gains in aseptically-packaged broth, partially offset by declines in canned broth.
Sales of U.S. beverages decreased 5%, primarily due to declines in V8 V-Fusion beverages and V8 vegetable juice, partially offset by gains in V8 Splash beverages. Our U.S. beverages continued to be under pressure from category weakness in shelf-stable juices, as well as from competition from specialty beverages and packaged fresh juices. Sales of other U.S. simple meals increased 5%, primarily due to growth in Prego pasta sauces, Plum products and Campbell's dinner sauces, partially offset by lower sales in other simple meal products. In Canada, sales decreased due to the negative impact of currency translation.
In 2016, Global Biscuits and Snacks sales decreased 3% reflecting a 4% negative impact from currency translation. Excluding the negative impact of currency translation, segment sales increased primarily due to gains in Pepperidge Farm Goldfish crackers and Arnott's biscuits in Australia, partially offset by declines in Kelsen.
In 2015, Global Biscuits and Snacks sales decreased 3%. In Arnott's, sales decreased primarily due to the impact of currency translation. Excluding the negative impact of currency translation, sales of Arnott's products increased due to volume gains and higher selling prices in Australia and Indonesia. Pepperidge Farm sales declined primarily due to the impact of the 53rdweek. Excluding the impact of the 53rdweek, Pepperidge Farm sales increased due to gains in fresh bakery, and crackers and cookies,

19






partially offset by declines in frozen products. Sales of simple meals and beverages in the Asia Pacific region declined due to the negative impact of currency translation and the 53rd week.
In 2016, Campbell Fresh sales increased 5% primarily due to the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet, which was acquired on June 29, 2015. Excluding the acquisition, sales declined reflecting lower sales in carrots and carrot ingredients, partially offset by gains in refrigerated beverages and salad dressings. In 2016, carrot sales performance primarily reflected the adverse impact of weather conditions on crop yields, and execution issues in response to those conditions, which led to customer dissatisfaction and a loss of business in the second half of the year. The increase in refrigerated beverages was primarily due to new product launches, partially offset by the impact of the voluntary recall of Bolthouse Farms Protein PLUS drinks in June. In 2016, promotional spending was increased to remain competitive and to support new product launches.
In 2015, Campbell Fresh sales increased 1%. Excluding the impact of the 53rd week, sales increased primarily due to gains in Bolthouse premium refrigerated beverages and salad dressings; and the acquisition of Garden Fresh Gourmet, which was acquired on June 29, 2015; partially offset by declines in Bolthouse carrots and carrot ingredients.
Gross Profit
Gross profit, defined as Net sales less Cost of products sold, decreased by $2 million in 2016 from 2015 and decreased by $189 million in 2015 from 2014. As a percent of sales, gross profit was 34.9% in 2016, 34.4% in 2015 and 35.9% in 2014.
The 0.5 percentage point increase in gross margin in 2016 and 1.5 percentage-point decrease in gross margin percentage in 2015 were due to the following factors:
 
2016
 
2015
Productivity improvements
2.0%
 
1.6%
Higher selling prices
0.6
 
0.5
Mix
0.4
 
(0.3)
Higher level of promotional spending
(0.2)
 
(0.1)
Impact of acquisitions
(0.3)
 
0.3
Cost inflation, supply chain costs and other factors(1)
(0.8)
 
(2.5)
Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments(2)
(1.2)
 
(1.0)
 
0.5%
 
(1.5)%
__________________________________________
(1) 
2016 includes a positive margin impact of 0.6 points from cost savings initiatives.
(2)
Mark-to-market losses were $176 million in 2016 and $80 million in 2015.

Marketing and Selling Expenses
Marketing and selling expenses as a percent of sales were 11.2% in 2016, 10.9% in 2015 and 11.2% in 2014. Marketing and selling expenses increased 1% in 2016 from 2015. The increase was due to increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 3 percentage points); higher advertising and consumer promotion expenses (approximately 2 percentage points); lower marketing overhead expenses and lower selling expenses (approximately 1 percentage point); and inflation (approximately 1 percentage point), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 4 percentage points) and the impact of currency translation (approximately 2 percentage points). The increase in advertising and consumer promotion expenses in 2016 was primarily in Global Biscuits and Snacks.
Marketing and selling expenses decreased 5% in 2015 from 2014. The decrease was primarily due to the impact of currency translation (approximately 2 percentage points); lower advertising and consumer promotion expenses (approximately 2 percentage points); lower marketing overhead expenses (approximately 1 percentage point) and lower selling expenses (approximately 1 percentage point), partially offset by increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 1 percentage point). The decline in advertising and consumer promotion expenses in 2015 was primarily in Americas Simple Meals and Beverages, partially offset by an increase in Global Biscuits and Snacks.
Administrative Expenses
Administrative expenses as a percent of sales were 8.1% in 2016, 7.4% in 2015 and 7.0% in 2014. Administrative expenses increased 7% in 2016 from 2015. The increase was primarily due to increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 7 percentage points); higher costs related to the implementation of the new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives (approximately 4 percentage points); inflation (approximately 2 percentage points) and higher incentive compensation costs (approximately 1 percentage point), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 6 percentage points) and the impact of currency translation (approximately 1 percentage point).

20






Administrative expenses increased 4% in 2015 from 2014. The increase was primarily due to costs of $22 million in 2015 related to the implementation of the new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives (approximately 4 percentage points); higher incentive compensation costs (approximately 4 percentage points), and increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 1 percentage point), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 3 percentage points) and the impact of currency translation (approximately 2 percentage points).
Research and Development Expenses
Research and development expenses increased $7 million, or 6%, in 2016 from 2015. The increase was primarily due to increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 9 percentage points) and increased costs to support long-term innovation (approximately 3 percentage points), partially offset by benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 6 percentage points).
Research and development expenses decreased $5 million, or 4%, in 2015 from 2014. The decrease was primarily due to benefits from cost savings initiatives (approximately 7 percentage points), partially offset by increased losses on pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments (approximately 4 percentage points).
Other Expenses / (Income)
Other expenses in 2016 included a non-cash impairment charge of $141 million on the intangible assets of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit, which is part of the Campbell Fresh segment. The impairment charge was recorded as a result of our annual review of intangible assets. See Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. In addition, 2016 included $20 million of amortization of intangible assets and a $25 million gain from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition. Other expenses in 2015 included $17 million of amortization of intangible assets and an impairment charge of $6 million related to minor trademarks used in the Global Biscuits and Snacks segment. Other expenses in 2014 included a loss of $9 million on foreign exchange forward contracts used to hedge the proceeds from the sale of the European simple meals business and $18 million of amortization of intangible assets.
Operating Earnings
Segment operating earnings increased 11% in 2016 from 2015 and decreased 5% in 2015 from 2014.
An analysis of operating earnings by segment follows:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
% Change
(Millions)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
 
2016/2015
 
2015/2014
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
1,069

 
$
948

 
$
1,030

 
13%
 
(8
)%
Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
422

 
383

 
366

 
10
 
5

Campbell Fresh
 
60

 
61

 
68

 
(2)
 
(10
)
 
 
1,551

 
1,392

 
1,464

 
11%
 
(5
)%
Corporate
 
(560
)
 
(236
)
 
(142
)
 
 
 
 
Restructuring charges(1)
 
(31
)
 
(102
)
 
(55
)
 
 
 
 
Earnings before interest and taxes
 
$
960

 
$
1,054

 
$
1,267

 
 
 
 
__________________________________________
(1)
See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on restructuring charges.
Earnings from Americas Simple Meals and Beverages increased 13% in 2016 versus 2015. The increase was primarily due to a higher gross margin percentage, benefiting from productivity improvements and increased net price realization, as well as lower marketing and selling expenses, partially offset by volume declines.
Earnings from Americas Simple Meals and Beverages decreased 8% in 2015 versus 2014. The decrease was due to cost inflation and higher supply chain costs, unfavorable product mix, and the impact of the 53rd week, partially offset by productivity improvements, lower marketing expenses, higher selling prices and the benefit of lapping the Plum recall in 2014.
Earnings from Global Biscuits and Snacks increased 10% in 2016 versus 2015. The increase was primarily due to a higher gross margin percentage, volume gains, lower selling expenses and lower administrative expenses, partly offset by the negative impact of currency translation and higher advertising and consumer promotion expenses.
Earnings from Global Biscuits and Snacks increased 5% in 2015 versus 2014. The increase was primarily due to productivity improvements and higher selling prices, partially offset by cost inflation and higher supply chain costs, increased marketing expenses and the negative impact of currency translation.

21






Earnings from Campbell Fresh decreased 2% in 2016 versus 2015. The decrease was primarily due to higher carrot costs, and the impact of the voluntary recall of Bolthouse Farms Protein PLUS drinks and the related production outages, partially offset by productivity improvements and lower administrative expenses.
Earnings from Campbell Fresh decreased 10% in 2015 versus 2014. The decrease was primarily due to cost inflation and higher supply chain costs, partially offset by favorable product mix and productivity improvements. The increase in cost inflation and higher supply chain costs reflected higher carrot costs due in part to adverse weather.
Corporate in 2016 included a $313 million loss associated with pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments, a non-cash impairment charge of $141 million on the intangible assets of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit, costs of $47 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. Corporate in 2015 included a $138 million loss associated with pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments and costs of $22 million related to the implementation of our new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives. The remaining increase was primarily due to an increase in pension benefit cost, resulting from a reduction in expected return on assets partially offset by lower interest cost.
Corporate in 2014 included a $31 million loss associated with pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments, a $9 million loss on foreign exchange forward contracts related to the sale of the European simple meals business, and $3 million of restructuring-related costs. The remaining decrease was primarily due to a reduction in pension and postretirement benefit interest cost, net of expected return on assets, and lower losses on open commodity hedges in 2015.
Interest Expense/Income
Interest expense increased to $115 million in 2016 from $108 million in 2015, reflecting higher average interest rates on the debt portfolio, partially offset by lower average levels of debt.
Interest expense decreased to $108 million in 2015 from $122 million in 2014, reflecting lower average levels of debt.
Taxes on Earnings
The effective tax rate was 33.7% in 2016, 29.8% in 2015 and 32.6% in 2014.
In 2016, we recognized a tax benefit of $113 million on $313 million of pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market losses; a $29 million tax benefit on $78 million of restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs; and a $14 million tax benefit on the $141 million impairment charge on the trademark and goodwill associated with the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit. 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 $51 million on $138 million of pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market losses and a $46 million tax benefit on $124 million of restructuring charges and implementation costs. After adjusting for the items above, the remaining increase in the effective tax rate in 2016 was primarily due to lapping the favorable resolution of an intercompany pricing agreement between the U.S. and Canada in 2015.
In 2014, we recognized a tax benefit of $17 million on $58 million of restructuring charges and related costs. In addition, 2014 included a tax benefit of $12 million on $31 million of pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market losses; a tax expense of $7 million associated with the sale of the European simple meals business; and a tax benefit of $3 million on a loss of $9 million on foreign exchange forward contracts used to hedge the proceeds from the sale of the business. After adjusting for the items above, the remaining decrease in the effective rate in 2015 was primarily due to the favorable resolution of an intercompany pricing agreement between the U.S. and Canada.
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 structure, 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 structure, we designed and implemented a new IGS organization to deliver shared services across the company. 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 250 positions. In 2016, we recorded a restructuring charge of $35 million related to these initiatives. In 2015, we recorded a restructuring charge of $102 million related to these initiatives.

22






In 2016, we also incurred charges of $47 million 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.
The aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs recorded in 2016 was $52 million, or $0.17 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
July 31, 2016
Severance pay and benefits
$
128

Implementation costs and other related costs
78

Total
$
206

The total estimated pre-tax costs for the 2015 initiatives are approximately $250 million to $300 million. We expect the costs to consist of approximately $135 million to $145 million in severance pay and benefits, and approximately $115 million to $155 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 30%; Global Biscuits and Snacks - approximately 32%; Campbell Fresh - approximately 3%; and Corporate - approximately 35%.
We expect substantially all costs to be cash expenditures, except for $7 million of non-cash postretirement and pension curtailment costs incurred in 2015. We expect to incur the costs through 2018, and to fund the costs through cash flows from operations and short-term borrowings.
We expect the 2015 initiatives to generate pre-tax savings of approximately $265 million in 2017, and once fully implemented, annual ongoing savings of approximately $300 million beginning in 2018. In 2016 and 2015, pre-tax savings were $215 million and $85 million, respectively.
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 incurred to date associated with segments is as follows:
(Millions)
2016
 
Costs Incurred to Date
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
17

 
$
71

Global Biscuits and Snacks
22

 
66

Campbell Fresh
1

 
2

Corporate
42

 
67

Total
$
82

 
$
206

2014 Initiatives
In 2014, we implemented initiatives to reduce overhead across the organization, restructure manufacturing and streamline operations for our soup and broth business in China and improve supply chain efficiency in Australia. Details of the 2014 initiatives include:
We streamlined our salaried workforce in North America and our workforce in the Asia Pacific region. Approximately 250 positions were eliminated.
Together with our joint venture partner Swire Pacific Limited, we restructured manufacturing and streamlined operations for our soup and broth business in China. As a result, certain assets were impaired, and approximately 100 positions were eliminated.
In Australia, we commenced an initiative to improve supply chain efficiency by relocating production from our biscuit plant in Marleston to Huntingwood. The relocation will continue through 2017 and will result in the elimination of approximately 45 positions.
We implemented an initiative to reduce overhead across the organization by eliminating approximately 85 positions. The actions were completed in 2015.
In 2016, we recorded a reduction to restructuring charges of $4 million ($3 million after tax, or $.01 per share) related to the 2014 initiatives. In 2014, we recorded a restructuring charge of $54 million ($33 million after tax, or $.10 per share, in earnings

23






from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company) related to the 2014 initiatives. As of July 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 July 31, 2016
Severance pay and benefits
$
41

 
$
(4
)
 
$
37

Asset impairment
12

 

 
12

Other exit costs
1

 

 
1

Total
$
54

 
$
(4
)
 
$
50

______________________________________
(1) 
Recognized as of August 2, 2015.
Of the aggregate $50 million of pre-tax costs, approximately $37 million represented cash expenditures. In addition, we invested approximately $4 million in capital expenditures as of July 31, 2016, primarily to relocate biscuit production and packaging capabilities.
The 2014 initiatives generated pre-tax savings of approximately $26 million in 2014 and $57 million in 2015. We generated annual ongoing savings of approximately $65 million beginning in 2016.
Segment operating results do not include restructuring charges because we evaluate segment performance excluding such charges. A summary of restructuring charges associated with segments is as follows:
(Millions)
2016
 
Total Program
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
(1
)
 
$
13

Global Biscuits and Snacks
(3
)
 
35

Campbell Fresh

 
1

Corporate

 
1

Total
$
(4
)
 
$
50

2013 Initiatives
In 2013, we implemented initiatives to improve supply chain efficiency, expand access to manufacturing and distribution capabilities and reduce costs.
In 2014, we recorded a restructuring charge of $1 million related to the 2013 initiatives. In addition, we recorded approximately $3 million of costs related to the 2013 initiatives in Cost of products sold, representing other exit costs. The aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges and related costs recorded in 2014 was $3 million, or $.01 per share.
A summary of the pre-tax costs associated with the 2013 initiatives is as follows:
(Millions)
Total Program
Severance pay and benefits
$
31

Accelerated depreciation/asset impairment
99

Other exit costs
12

Total
$
142

In 2015, we substantially completed the 2013 initiatives.
See Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Discontinued Operations
On October 28, 2013, we completed the sale of our European simple meals business to Soppa Investments S.à r.l., an affiliate of CVC Capital Partners. The all-cash preliminary sale price was €400 million, or $548 million, and was subject to certain post-closing adjustments, which resulted in a $14 million reduction of proceeds. We recognized a pre-tax gain of $141 million ($72 million after tax, or $.23 per share) in 2014.
We have reflected the results of the European simple meals business as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

24






Results of discontinued operations were as follows:
(Millions)
 
2014
Net sales
 
$
137

 
 
 
Gain on sale of the European simple meals business
 
$
141

Earnings from operations, before taxes
 
14

Earnings before taxes
 
$
155

Taxes on earnings
 
(74
)
Earnings from discontinued operations
 
$
81

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; credit facilities; and cash and cash equivalents. We believe that our sources of financing will be adequate to meet our future requirements.
We generated cash flows from operations of $1.463 billion in 2016, compared to $1.182 billion in 2015. The increase in 2016 was primarily due to higher cash earnings and lower working capital requirements, primarily inventories.
We generated cash flows from operations of $1.182 billion in 2015, compared to $899 million in 2014. The increase in 2015 was primarily due to lower working capital requirements, taxes paid in 2014 on the divestiture of the European simple meals business and lower pension contributions in 2015, partially offset by lower cash earnings.
Current assets are less than current liabilities as a result of our level of current maturities of long-term debt and short-term borrowings and our focus to lower core working capital requirements by reducing trade receivables and inventories while extending payment terms for accounts payables. We had negative working capital of $647 million as of July 31, 2016, and $713 million as of August 2, 2015. Debt maturing within one year was $1.219 billion as of July 31, 2016, and $1.543 billion as of August 2, 2015.
Capital expenditures were $341 million in 2016, $380 million in 2015 and $347 million in 2014. Capital expenditures are expected to total approximately $350 million in 2017. Capital expenditures in 2016 included projects to expand: beverage and salad dressing capacity at Bolthouse Farms (approximately $22 million); biscuit capacity in Indonesia (approximately $11 million); warehouse capacity in North America (approximately $11 million); cracker capacity at Pepperidge Farm (approximately $9 million); and capacity in Malaysia (approximately $6 million); as well as the continued enhancement of our corporate headquarters (approximately $15 million) and the ongoing initiative to simplify the soup-making process in North America (also known as the soup common platform initiative) (approximately $5 million). Capital expenditures in 2015 included projects to expand: cracker capacity at Pepperidge Farm (approximately $36 million); beverage and salad dressing capacity at Bolthouse Farms (approximately $33 million); warehouse capacity at Bolthouse Farms (approximately $13 million); biscuit capacity in Indonesia (approximately $13 million); and aseptic broth capacity (approximately $6 million); as well as the ongoing soup common platform initiative in North America (approximately $30 million); and continued enhancement of our corporate headquarters (approximately $12 million). Capital expenditures in 2014 included projects to expand: capacity at Pepperidge Farm (approximately $48 million) and broth capacity (approximately $15 million); as well as the ongoing soup common platform initiative in North America (approximately $22 million); continued enhancement of our corporate headquarters (approximately $12 million); a flexible beverage production line for Bolthouse Farms (approximately $11 million); the refurbishment of a beverage filling and packaging line for the Americas Simple Meals and Beverages business (approximately $10 million); the packing automation and capacity expansion projects at one of our Australian biscuit plants (approximately $10 million) and an advanced planning system in North America (approximately $4 million).
On June 29, 2015, we completed the acquisition of the assets of Garden Fresh Gourmet. The purchase price was $232 million, and was funded through the issuance of commercial paper.
On August 8, 2013, we completed the acquisition of Kelsen. The final all-cash purchase price was $331 million and was funded through the issuance of commercial paper.
In March 2015, we issued $300 million of 3.30% notes that mature on March 19, 2025. Interest on the notes is due semi-annually on March 19 and September 19, commencing on September 19, 2015. The notes may be redeemed in whole, or in part, at our option at any time at the applicable redemption price. In certain circumstances, we may be required to repurchase some or all of the notes upon a change in control of our company and a downgrade of the notes below investment grade. The net proceeds were used for general corporate purposes.
Dividend payments were $390 million in 2016, $394 million in 2015 and $391 million in 2014. Annual dividends declared were $1.248 per share in 2016, 2015, and 2014. The 2016 fourth quarter dividend was $.312 per share. On September 1, 2016,

25






we announced that our Board of Directors approved an increase in our quarterly dividend from $.312 per share to $.35 per share. The quarterly dividend is payable on October 31, 2016.
We repurchased approximately 3 million shares at a cost of $143 million in 2016, approximately 5 million shares at a cost of $244 million in 2015, and approximately 2 million shares at a cost of $76 million in 2014. See Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements and “Market for Registrant's Capital Stock, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities” for more information.
At July 31, 2016, we had $1.219 billion of short-term borrowings due within one year, of which $770 million was comprised of commercial paper borrowings. As of July 31, 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 U.S. facility remained unused at July 31, 2016, except for $3 million of standby letters of credit that we issued under it. The U.S. facility supports our commercial paper programs and other general corporate purposes. We may increase the commitment under the U.S. facility up to an additional $500 million, upon the agreement of either existing lenders or of additional banks not currently parties to the facility. In July 2016, we entered into a committed revolving credit facility totaling CAD $280 million, or $215 million, that matures in July 2019. The Canadian facility's commitment mandatorily reduces to CAD $225 million in July 2017 and to CAD $185 million in July 2018. The Canadian facility supports general corporate purposes. As of July 31, 2016, we borrowed CAD $280 million, or $215 million, at a rate of 1.78% pursuant to this facility, of which CAD $55 million, or $42 million, is classified as short-term borrowings. In August 2016, we reduced the borrowings and commitment under the Canadian facility by CAD $35 million, or $27 million.
On October 28, 2013, we completed the sale of our European simple meals business to Soppa Investments S.à r.l., an affiliate of CVC Capital Partners, for €400 million, or $548 million. The sale price was subject to certain post-closing adjustments, which resulted in a $14 million reduction of proceeds. We used the proceeds from the sale to pay taxes on the sale, to reduce debt and for other general corporate purposes.
In September 2014, we filed a 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.
We are in compliance with the covenants contained in our revolving credit facilities and debt securities.
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND OTHER COMMITMENTS
Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our obligations and commitments to make future payments under certain contractual obligations as of July 31, 2016. For additional information on debt, see Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Operating leases are primarily entered into for warehouse and office facilities and certain equipment. Purchase commitments represent purchase orders and long-term purchase arrangements related to the procurement of ingredients, supplies, machinery, equipment and services. These commitments are not expected to have a material impact on liquidity. Other long-term liabilities primarily represent payments related to deferred compensation obligations. For additional information on other long-term liabilities, see Note 20 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
Contractual Payments Due by Fiscal Year
(Millions)
Total
 
2017
 
2018-2019
 
2020-2021
 
Thereafter
Debt obligations(1)
$
3,551

 
$
1,220

 
$
474

 
$
701

 
$
1,156

Interest payments(2)
791

 
105

 
178

 
140

 
368

Derivative payments(3)
60

 
16

 
44

 

 

Purchase commitments
1,001

 
758

 
135

 
61

 
47

Operating leases
158

 
38

 
56

 
38

 
26

Other long-term payments(4)
170

 

 
73

 
34

 
63

Total long-term cash obligations
$
5,731

 
$
2,137

 
$
960

 
$
974

 
$
1,660

_______________________________________
(1) 
Excludes unamortized net discount/premium on debt issuances and debt issuance costs. For additional information on debt obligations, see Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2) 
Interest payments for short- and long-term borrowings are based on principal amounts and coupons or contractual rates at fiscal year end.
(3) 
Represents payments of foreign exchange forward contracts, commodity contracts, forward starting interest rate swaps, and deferred compensation hedges.

26






(4) 
Represents other long-term liabilities, excluding unrecognized tax benefits, postretirement benefits and payments related to pension plans. For additional information on pension and postretirement benefits, see Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. For additional information on unrecognized tax benefits, see Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Other Commitments
We guarantee approximately 2,000 bank loans to Pepperidge Farm independent contractor distributors by third-party financial institutions used to purchase distribution routes. The maximum potential amount of the future payments under existing guarantees we could be required to make is $198 million. Our guarantees are indirectly secured by the distribution routes. We do not believe that it is probable that we will be required to make material guarantee payments as a result of defaults on the bank loans guaranteed. See also Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information on off-balance sheet arrangements.
INFLATION
We are exposed to the impact of inflation on our cost of products sold. We use a number of strategies to mitigate the effects of cost inflation including increasing prices, commodity hedging and pursuing cost productivity initiatives such as global procurement strategies and capital investments that improve the efficiency of operations.
MARKET RISK SENSITIVITY
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. 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. International operations, which accounted for 19% of 2016 net sales, are concentrated principally in Australia and Canada. We manage our foreign currency exposures by borrowing in various foreign currencies and utilizing cross-currency swaps and foreign exchange forward contracts. We enter into cross-currency swaps and foreign exchange forward contracts for periods consistent with 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.
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, aluminum, soybean oil, cocoa, natural gas, butter, corn and cheese, which impact the cost of raw materials.
The information below summarizes our market risks associated with debt obligations and other significant financial instruments as of July 31, 2016. Fair values included herein have been determined based on quoted market prices or pricing models using current market rates. The information presented below should be read in conjunction with Notes 13, 14 and 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The following table presents principal cash flows and related interest rates by fiscal year of maturity for debt obligations. Interest rates disclosed on variable-rate debt represent the weighted-average rates at July 31, 2016. Notional amounts and related interest rates of interest rate swaps are presented by fiscal year of maturity. For the swaps, variable rates are the weighted-average forward rates for the term of each contract.
 
Expected Fiscal Year of Maturity
 
 
 
Fair Value of Liabilities
(Millions)
2017
 
2018
 
2019
 
2020
 
2021
 
Thereafter
 
Total
 
Debt(1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed rate
$
402

 
$
1

 
$
300

 
$
1

 
$
700

 
$
1,156

 
$
2,560

 
$
2,736

Weighted-average interest rate
3.05
%
 
5.44
%
 
4.50
%
 
5.00
%
 
5.57
%
 
3.17
%
 
3.97
%
 
 
Variable rate(2)
$
818

 
$
31

 
$
142

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
991

 
$
991

Weighted-average interest rate
0.86
%
 
1.78
%
 
1.78
%
 
%
 
%
 
%
 
1.02
%
 
 
Interest Rate Swaps
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash-flow swaps
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Variable to fixed
$

 
$
300

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
300

 
$
44

Average pay rate
%
 
3.09
%
 
%
 
%
 
%
 
%
 
3.09
%
 
 
Average receive rate
%
 
1.47
%
 
%
 
%
 
%
 
%
 
1.47
%
 
 
_______________________________________
(1) 
Expected maturities exclude unamortized net discount/premium on debt issuances and debt issuance costs.

27






(2) 
Represents $770 million of USD borrowings, $215 million equivalent of CAD borrowings and $6 million equivalent of borrowings in other currencies.
As of August 2, 2015, fixed-rate debt of approximately $2.57 billion with an average interest rate of 3.95% and variable-rate debt of approximately $1.53 billion with an average interest rate of 0.58% were outstanding. As of August 2, 2015, $300 million forward starting interest rate swaps were outstanding. The average rate to be received on these swaps was 2.75%, and the average rate to be paid was estimated to be 3.09% over the remaining life of the swaps.
We are exposed to foreign exchange risk related to our international operations, including non-functional currency intercompany debt and net investments in subsidiaries.
Cross-Currency Swaps
We did not have any cross-currency swap contracts outstanding as of July 31, 2016. The cross-currency swap contracts outstanding as of August 2, 2015, represented one pay variable AUD/receive variable USD swap with a notional value totaling $31 million and four pay variable CAD/receive variable USD swaps with notional values totaling $219 million. The aggregate notional value of these swap contracts was $250 million as of August 2, 2015, and the aggregate fair value of these swap contracts was a gain of $40 million as of August 2, 2015.
We are also exposed to foreign exchange risk as a result of transactions in currencies other than the functional currency of certain subsidiaries, including subsidiary debt. We utilize foreign exchange forward purchase and sale contracts to hedge these exposures. The following table summarizes the foreign exchange forward contracts outstanding and the related weighted-average contract exchange rates as of July 31, 2016.
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts
(Millions)
Notional Value
 
Average Contractual Exchange Rate (currency paid/ currency received)
Receive USD/Pay CAD
$
168

 
1.3572
Receive DKK/Pay USD
$
42

 
0.1509
Receive AUD/Pay NZD
$
28

 
1.0773
Receive USD/Pay AUD
$
18

 
1.3948
We had an additional number of smaller contracts to purchase or sell various other currencies with a notional value of $10 million as of July 31, 2016. The aggregate fair value of all contracts was a loss of $10 million as of July 31, 2016. The total notional value of foreign exchange forward contracts outstanding was $283 million, and the aggregate fair value was a gain of $10 million as of August 2, 2015.
We enter into commodity futures, options and swap contracts to reduce the volatility of price fluctuations for commodities. The notional value of these contracts was $88 million, and the aggregate fair value of these contracts was a loss of $1 million as of July 31, 2016. The notional value of these contracts was $95 million, and the aggregate fair value of these contracts was a loss of $9 million as of August 2, 2015.
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. The notional value of the contract that is linked to the total return on our capital stock was $15 million at July 31, 2016, and $17 million at August 2, 2015. The average forward interest rate applicable to this contract, which expires in April 2017, was 1.13% at July 31, 2016. The notional value of the contract that is linked to the return on the Standard & Poor's 500 Index was $22 million at July 31, 2016, and $24 million at August 2, 2015. The average forward interest rate applicable to this contract, which expires in March 2017, was 0.90% at July 31, 2016. The notional value of the contract that is linked to the total return of the iShares MSCI EAFE Index was $7 million at July 31, 2016, and $8 million at August 2, 2015. The average forward interest rate applicable to this contract, which expires in March 2017, was 0.90% at July 31, 2016. The fair value of these contracts was not material at July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015.
Our utilization of financial instruments in managing market risk exposures described above is consistent with the prior year. Changes in the portfolio of financial instruments are a function of the results of operations, debt repayment and debt issuances, market effects on debt and foreign currency, and our acquisition and divestiture activities.

28






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. See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of significant accounting policies. The following areas all require the use of subjective or complex judgments, estimates and assumptions:
Trade and consumer promotion programs — We offer various sales incentive programs to customers and consumers, such as feature price discounts, in-store display incentives, cooperative advertising programs, new product introduction fees, and coupons. The mix between promotion programs, which are classified as reductions in revenue, and advertising or other marketing activities, which are classified as marketing and selling expenses, fluctuates between periods based on our overall marketing plans, and such fluctuations have an impact on revenues. The measurement and recognition of the costs for trade and consumer promotion programs involves the use of judgment related to performance and redemption estimates. Estimates are made based on historical experience and other factors. Typically, programs that are offered have a very short duration. Historically, the difference between actual experience compared to estimated redemptions and performance has not been significant to the quarterly or annual financial statements. However, actual expenses may differ if the level of redemption rates and performance were to vary from estimates.
Valuation of long-lived assets — Fixed assets and amortizable intangible assets are reviewed for impairment as events or changes in circumstances occur indicating that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. Undiscounted cash flow analyses are used to determine if impairment exists. If impairment is determined to exist, the loss is calculated based on estimated fair value.
Goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized but rather are tested at least annually for impairment, or more often if events or changes in circumstances indicate that more likely than not the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit represents an operating segment or a component of an operating segment. Goodwill is tested for impairment by either performing a qualitative evaluation or a two-step quantitative test. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. We may elect not to perform the qualitative assessment for some or all reporting units and perform a two-step quantitative impairment test. Fair value is determined based on discounted cash flow analyses. The discounted estimates of future cash flows include significant management assumptions such as revenue growth rates, operating margins, weighted average cost of capital, and future economic and market conditions. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds fair value, goodwill is considered impaired. The amount of the impairment is the difference between the carrying value of the goodwill and the “implied” fair value, which is calculated as if the reporting unit had just been acquired and accounted for as a business combination.
Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment by comparing the fair value of the asset to the carrying value. Fair value is determined based on discounted cash flow analyses that include significant management assumptions such as revenue growth rates, weighted average cost of capital, and assumed royalty rates. If the fair value is less than the carrying value, the asset is reduced to fair value.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, as part of our annual review of goodwill and intangible assets, we recognized an impairment charge of $106 million on goodwill and $35 million on a trademark within the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit, which is part of the Campbell Fresh segment. In 2016, carrot performance primarily reflected the adverse impact of weather conditions on crop yields, and execution issues in response to those conditions, which led to customer dissatisfaction, a loss of business, and higher carrot costs in the second half of the year. These factors resulted in a decline in profitability during the second half of the year which was below our expectations. Although we expect sales and margins to improve over time, after this weak performance we revised our 2017 outlook and long-term expectations in the fourth quarter. The impairment was attributable to this revised future outlook for the business, with reduced expectations for sales, margins, and discounted cash flows.
In the fourth quarter of 2015, as part of our annual review of intangible assets, we recognized an impairment charge of $6 million on minor trademarks used in the Global Biscuits and Snacks segment. The trademarks were determined to be impaired as a result of a decrease in the fair value of the brands, resulting from reduced expectations for future sales and discounted cash flows.
The estimates of future cash flows involve considerable management judgment and are based upon assumptions about expected future operating performance, economic conditions, market conditions, and cost of capital. Inherent in estimating the future cash flows are uncertainties beyond our control, such as capital markets. The actual cash flows could differ materially from management’s estimates due to changes in business conditions, operating performance, and economic conditions.
As of July 31, 2016, the carrying value of goodwill was $2.263 billion, of which $202 million relates to the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit. The carrying value of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit represents fair value as a result of the impairment charge in 2016. In addition, we acquired Garden Fresh Gourmet on June 29, 2015, and therefore the fair value is not significantly in excess of the carrying value. As of July 31, 2016, goodwill related to

29






Garden Fresh Gourmet was $116 million. As of the 2016 measurement, excluding the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit and Garden Fresh Gourmet, the estimated fair value of each reporting unit exceeded the carrying value by at least 25%. Holding all other assumptions used in the 2016 fair value measurement constant, a 100-basis-point increase in the weighted average cost of capital would not result in the carrying value of any reporting unit, other than the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit and Garden Fresh Gourmet, to be in excess of the fair value. The fair value was based on significant management assumptions. If assumptions are not achieved or market conditions decline, potential impairment charges could result.
As of July 31, 2016, the carrying value of indefinite-lived trademarks was $927 million, of which $68 million relates to the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit. Holding all other assumptions used in the 2016 measurement constant, a 100-basis-point increase in the weighted average cost of capital would reduce the fair value of trademarks, and result in an impairment charge of approximately $30 million.
See also Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on goodwill and intangible assets.
Pension and postretirement benefits — We provide certain pension and postretirement benefits to employees and retirees. Determining the cost associated with such benefits is dependent on various actuarial assumptions, including discount rates, expected return on plan assets, compensation increases, turnover rates and health care trend rates. Independent actuaries, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, perform the required calculations to determine expense.
The discount rate is established as of our fiscal year-end measurement date. In establishing the discount rate, we review published market indices of high-quality debt securities, adjusted as appropriate for duration. In addition, independent actuaries apply high-quality bond yield curves to the expected benefit payments of the plans. The expected return on plan assets is a long-term assumption based upon historical experience and expected future performance, considering our current and projected investment mix. This estimate is based on an estimate of future inflation, long-term projected real returns for each asset class, and a premium for active management. Within any given fiscal period, significant differences may arise between the actual return and the expected return on plan assets. Gains and losses resulting from differences between actual experience and the assumptions are determined at each measurement date.
Net periodic pension and postretirement expense was $317 million in 2016, $125 million in 2015 and $58 million in 2014.
Significant weighted-average assumptions as of the end of the year were as follows:
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Pension
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate for benefit obligations
3.39%
 
4.19%
 
4.33%
Expected return on plan assets
7.09%
 
7.35%
 
7.62%
Postretirement
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate for obligations
3.20%
 
4.00%
 
4.00%
Initial health care trend rate
7.25%
 
7.75%
 
8.25%
Ultimate health care trend rate
4.50%
 
4.50%
 
4.50%
Estimated sensitivities to annual net periodic pension cost are as follows: a 50-basis-point decline in the discount rate would decrease expense by approximately $6 million and would result in an immediate loss recognition of approximately $180 million. A 50-basis-point reduction in the estimated return on assets assumption would increase expense by approximately $10 million. A one-percentage-point increase in assumed health care costs would have no impact on postretirement service and interest cost and would result in an immediate loss recognition of $12 million.
No contributions were made to U.S. pension plans in 2016 and 2015. We contributed $35 million to U.S. pension plans in 2014. Contributions to non-U.S. plans were $2 million in 2016, $5 million in 2015 and $12 million in 2014. We do not expect to contribute to the U.S. pension plans in 2017. Contributions to non-U.S. plans are expected to be approximately $5 million in 2017.
See also Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on pension and postretirement benefits.
Income taxes — The effective tax rate reflects statutory tax rates, tax planning opportunities available in the various jurisdictions in which we operate and management’s estimate of the ultimate outcome of various tax audits and issues. Significant judgment is required in determining the effective tax rate and in evaluating tax positions. Income taxes are recorded based on amounts refundable or payable in the current year and include the effect of deferred taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future impact of differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, as well as for operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Valuation allowances are established for deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.
See also Notes 1 and 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion on income taxes.

30






RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
See Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information on recent accounting pronouncements.
CAUTIONARY FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS
This 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 Part 1, Item 1A and elsewhere in this Report, or in our other Securities and Exchange Commission filings, 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:
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;
our ability to realize projected cost savings and benefits from our efficiency and/or restructuring initiatives;
the impact of strong competitive response to our efforts to leverage our brand power with product innovation, promotional programs and new advertising;
changes in consumer demand for our products and favorable perception of our brands;
product quality and safety issues, including recalls and product liabilities;
the risks associated with trade and consumer acceptance of product improvements, shelving initiatives, new products and pricing and promotional strategies;
a changing customer landscape, including inventory management practices, and increased significance of certain of our key customers;
disruptions to our supply chain, including fluctuations in the supply of and inflation in energy and raw and packaging materials cost;
the impact of non-U.S. operations, including export and import restrictions, public corruption and compliance with foreign laws and regulations;
the ability to complete and integrate acquisitions, divestitures and other business portfolio changes;
the uncertainties of litigation and regulatory actions against us;
the possible disruption to the independent contractor distribution models used by certain of our businesses, including as a result of litigation or regulatory actions affecting their independent contractor classification;
our ability to protect our intellectual property rights;
impairment to goodwill or other intangible assets;
increased liabilities and costs related to our defined benefit pension plans;
a material failure in or breach of our information technology systems;
our ability to attract and retain key personnel;
changes in currency exchange rates, tax rates, interest rates, debt and equity markets, inflation rates, economic conditions, law, regulation and other external factors; and
unforeseen business disruptions in one or more of our markets due to political instability, civil disobedience, terrorism, armed hostilities, extreme weather conditions, 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.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk
The information presented in the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Market Risk Sensitivity” is incorporated herein by reference.

31






Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
(millions, except per share amounts)
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
 
52 weeks
 
52 weeks
 
53 weeks
Net sales
$
7,961

 
$
8,082

 
$
8,268

Costs and expenses
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of products sold
5,181

 
5,300

 
5,297

Marketing and selling expenses
893

 
884

 
929

Administrative expenses
641

 
601

 
576

Research and development expenses
124

 
117

 
122

Other expenses / (income)
131

 
24

 
22

Restructuring charges
31

 
102

 
55

Total costs and expenses
7,001

 
7,028

 
7,001

Earnings before interest and taxes
960

 
1,054

 
1,267

Interest expense
115

 
108

 
122

Interest income
4

 
3

 
3

Earnings before taxes
849

 
949

 
1,148

Taxes on earnings
286

 
283

 
374

Earnings from continuing operations
563

 
666

 
774

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

 
81

Net earnings
563

 
666

 
855

Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

 

 
(11
)
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
563

 
$
666

 
$
866

Per Share — Basic
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
1.82

 
$
2.13

 
$
2.50

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

 
.26

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
1.82

 
$
2.13

 
$
2.76

Weighted average shares outstanding — basic
309

 
312

 
314

Per Share — Assuming Dilution
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
1.81

 
$
2.13

 
$
2.48

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

 
.26

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
$
1.81

 
$
2.13

 
$
2.74

Weighted average shares outstanding — assuming dilution
311

 
313

 
316

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



32






CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(millions)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
 
Pre-tax amount
 
Tax (expense) benefit
 
After-tax amount
 
Pre-tax amount
 
Tax (expense) benefit
 
After-tax amount
 
Pre-tax amount
 
Tax (expense) benefit
 
After-tax amount
Net earnings
 
 
 
 
$
563

 
 
 
 
 
$
666

 
 
 
 
 
$
855

Other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
$
45

 
$

 
45

 
$
(312
)
 
$
1

 
(311
)
 
$
(5
)
 
$
(1
)
 
(6
)
Reclassification of currency translation adjustments realized upon disposal of business

 

 

 

 

 

 
(22
)
 
3

 
(19
)
Cash-flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized gains (losses) arising during period
(45
)
 
16

 
(29
)
 
(5
)
 
3

 
(2
)
 
(12
)
 
4

 
(8
)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings
(9
)
 
2

 
(7
)
 
(1
)
 
1

 

 

 

 

Pension and other postretirement benefits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prior service credit arising during the period
93

 
(34
)
 
59

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reclassification of prior service credit included in net earnings
(1
)
 

 
(1
)
 
(2
)
 
1

 
(1
)
 
(2
)
 
1

 
(1
)
Other comprehensive income (loss)
$
83

 
$
(16
)
 
67

 
$
(320
)
 
$
6

 
(314
)
 
$
(41
)
 
$
7

 
(34
)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
$
630

 
 
 
 
 
$
352

 
 
 
 
 
$
821

Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
3

 
 
 
 
 
(1
)
 
 
 
 
 
(10
)
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Campbell Soup Company
 
 
 
 
$
627

 
 
 
 
 
$
353

 
 
 
 
 
$
831

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

33






CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(millions, except per share amounts)
 
July 31,
2016
 
August 2,
2015
Current assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
296

 
$
253

Accounts receivable, net
626

 
647

Inventories
940

 
995

Other current assets
46

 
198

Total current assets
1,908

 
2,093

Plant assets, net of depreciation
2,407

 
2,347

Goodwill
2,263

 
2,344

Other intangible assets, net of amortization
1,152

 
1,205

Other assets ($34 and $0 attributable to variable interest entity)
107

 
88

Total assets
$
7,837

 
$
8,077

Current liabilities
 
 
 
Short-term borrowings
$
1,219

 
$
1,543

Payable to suppliers and others
610

 
544

Accrued liabilities
604

 
589

Dividend payable
100

 
101

Accrued income taxes
22

 
29

Total current liabilities
2,555

 
2,806

Long-term debt
2,314

 
2,539

Deferred taxes
396

 
505

Other liabilities
1,039

 
850

Total liabilities
6,304

 
6,700

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
354

 
339

Earnings retained in the business
1,927

 
1,754

Capital stock in treasury, at cost
(664
)
 
(556
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(104
)
 
(168
)
Total Campbell Soup Company shareholders' equity
1,525

 
1,381

Noncontrolling interests
8

 
(4
)
Total equity
1,533

 
1,377

Total liabilities and equity
$
7,837

 
$
8,077

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


34






CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(millions)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
 
52 weeks
 
52 weeks
 
53 weeks
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings
$
563

 
$
666

 
$
855

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to operating cash flow
 
 
 
 
 
Impairment charges
141

 
6

 

Restructuring charges
31

 
102

 
55

Stock-based compensation
64

 
57

 
57

Pension and postretirement benefit expense
317

 
118

 
58

Depreciation and amortization
308

 
303

 
305

Deferred income taxes
(30
)
 
(49
)
 
38

Gain on sale of business

 

 
(141
)
Other, net
6

 
15

 
9

Changes in working capital, net of acquisitions
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
24

 
12

 
(38
)
Inventories
59

 
(18
)
 
(80
)
Prepaid assets
9

 
10

 
(22
)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
(13
)
 
6

 
(93
)
Pension fund contributions
(2
)
 
(5
)
 
(47
)
Receipts from (payments of) hedging activities
44

 
11

 
(4
)
Other
(58
)
 
(52
)
 
(53
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
1,463

 
1,182

 
899

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Purchases of plant assets
(341
)
 
(380
)
 
(347
)
Sales of plant assets
5

 
15

 
22

Businesses acquired, net of cash acquired

 
(232
)
 
(329
)
Sale of business, net of cash divested

 

 
520

Other, net
(18
)
 
(6
)
 

Net cash used in investing activities
(354
)
 
(603
)
 
(134
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Net short-term borrowings (repayments)
(762
)
 
100

 
208

Long-term borrowings (repayments)
215

 
300

 
(2
)
Repayments of notes payable

 
(309
)
 
(700
)
Dividends paid
(390
)
 
(394
)
 
(391
)
Treasury stock purchases
(143
)
 
(244
)
 
(76
)
Treasury stock issuances
2

 
9

 
18

Excess tax benefits on stock-based compensation
7

 
6

 
13

Contributions from noncontrolling interest

 
9

 
5

Other, net

 
(3
)
 

Net cash used in financing activities
(1,071
)
 
(526
)
 
(925
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
5

 
(32
)
 
(9
)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
43

 
21

 
(169
)
Cash and cash equivalents continuing operations — beginning of period
253

 
232

 
333

Cash and cash equivalents discontinued operations — beginning of period

 

 
68

Cash and cash equivalents discontinued operations — end of period

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents continuing operations — end of period
$
296

 
$
253

 
$
232

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

35






CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Equity
(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 July 28, 2013
323

 
$
12

 
(11
)
 
$
(364
)
 
$
362

 
$
1,009

 
$
180

 
$
(7
)
 
$
1,192

Contribution from noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5

 
5

Net earnings (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
866

 
 
 
(11
)
 
855

Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(35
)
 
1

 
(34
)
Dividends ($1.248 per share)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(392
)
 
 
 
 
 
(392
)
Treasury stock purchased
 
 
 
 
(2
)
 
(76
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(76
)
Treasury stock issued under management incentive and stock option plans
 

 
 

 
3

 
84

 
(32
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
52

Balance at August 3, 2014
323

 
12

 
(10
)
 
(356
)
 
330

 
1,483

 
145

 
(12
)
 
1,602

Contribution from noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9

 
9

Net earnings (loss)

 

 

 

 

 
666

 

 

 
666

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 
(313
)
 
(1
)
 
(314
)
Dividends ($1.248 per share)

 

 

 

 

 
(395
)
 

 

 
(395
)
Treasury stock purchased

 

 
(5
)
 
(244
)
 

 

 

 

 
(244
)
Treasury stock issued under management incentive and stock option plans
 
 
 
 
2

 
44

 
9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
53

Balance at August 2, 2015
323

 
12

 
(13
)
 
(556
)
 
339

 
1,754

 
(168
)
 
(4
)
 
1,377

Contribution from noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9

 
9

Net earnings (loss)

 

 

 

 

 
563

 

 

 
563

Other comprehensive income (loss)

 

 

 

 

 

 
64

 
3

 
67

Dividends ($1.248 per share)

 

 

 

 

 
(390
)
 

 

 
(390
)
Treasury stock purchased

 

 
(3
)
 
(143
)
 

 

 

 

 
(143
)
Treasury stock issued under management incentive and stock option plans


 


 
1

 
35

 
15

 


 


 

 
50

Balance at July 31, 2016
323

 
$
12

 
(15
)
 
$
(664
)
 
$
354

 
$
1,927

 
$
(104
)
 
$
8

 
$
1,533

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

36






Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(currency in millions, except per share amounts)
1.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
In this Form 10-K, 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 food and beverage products.
Basis of Presentation — 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. Certain amounts in prior-year financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current-year presentation. Our fiscal year ends on the Sunday nearest July 31. There were 52 weeks in 2016 and 2015, and 53 weeks in 2014.
Out-of-Period Adjustment — In the fourth quarter of 2016, an out-of-period adjustment of $13 ($.04 per share) to increase taxes on earnings was recorded. The adjustment related to deferred tax expense that should have been provided on certain cross-currency swap contracts associated with intercompany debt. Most of the adjustment related to the third quarter of 2016. Management does not believe the adjustment is material to the consolidated financial statements for any period.
Use of Estimates — Generally accepted accounting principles require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition — Revenues are recognized when the earnings process is complete. This occurs when products are shipped in accordance with terms of agreements, title and risk of loss transfer to customers, collection is probable and pricing is fixed or determinable. Revenues are recognized net of provisions for returns, discounts and allowances. Certain sales promotion expenses, such as feature price discounts, in-store display incentives, cooperative advertising programs, new product introduction fees and coupon redemption costs, are classified as a reduction of sales. The recognition of costs for promotion programs involves the use of judgment related to performance and redemption estimates. Estimates are made based on historical experience and other factors. Costs are recognized either upon sale or when the incentive is offered, based on the program. Revenues are presented on a net basis for arrangements under which suppliers perform certain additional services.
Cash and Cash Equivalents — All highly liquid debt instruments purchased with a maturity of three months or less are classified as cash equivalents.
Inventories — All inventories are valued at the lower of average cost or market.
Property, Plant and Equipment — Property, plant and equipment are recorded at historical cost and are depreciated over estimated useful lives using the straight-line method. Buildings and machinery and equipment are depreciated over periods not exceeding 45 years and 20 years, respectively. Assets are evaluated for impairment when conditions indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Such conditions include significant adverse changes in business climate or a plan of disposal. Repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets — Goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized but rather are tested at least annually for impairment, or when circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or a component of an operating segment. Goodwill is tested for impairment by either performing a qualitative evaluation or a two-step quantitative test. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. We may elect not to perform the qualitative assessment for some or all reporting units and perform a two-step quantitative impairment test. Fair value is determined based on discounted cash flow analyses. The discounted estimates of future cash flows include significant management assumptions such as revenue growth rates, operating margins, weighted average cost of capital, and future economic and market conditions. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds fair value, goodwill is considered impaired. The amount of the impairment is the difference between the carrying value of the goodwill and the “implied” fair value, which is calculated as if the reporting unit had just been acquired and accounted for as a business combination.
Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment by comparing the fair value of the asset to the carrying value. Fair value is determined based on discounted cash flow analyses that include significant management assumptions such as revenue growth rates, weighted average cost of capital, and assumed royalty rates. If the fair value is less than the carrying value, the asset is reduced to fair value.
See Note 6 for information on intangible assets and impairment charges.
Derivative Financial Instruments — We use derivative financial instruments primarily for purposes of hedging exposures to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, commodities and equity-linked employee benefit obligations. We

37






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 strategies that qualify and strategies that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment. To qualify for hedge accounting, the hedging relationship, both at inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, is expected to be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in the fair value of the hedged risk during the period that the hedge is designated. 
All derivatives are recognized on the balance sheet at fair value. For derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting, on the date the derivative contract is entered into, we designate the derivative as a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or a firm commitment (fair-value hedge), a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (cash-flow hedge), or a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. Some derivatives may also be considered natural hedging instruments (changes in fair value act as economic offsets to changes in fair value of the underlying hedged item) and are not designated for hedge accounting.
Changes in the fair value of a fair-value hedge, along with the gain or loss on the underlying hedged asset or liability (including losses or gains on firm commitments), are recorded in current-period earnings. The effective portion of gains and losses on cash-flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss), until earnings are affected by the variability of cash flows. If the hedge is no longer effective, all changes in the fair value of the derivative are included in earnings each period until the instrument matures. If a derivative is used as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, its changes in fair value, to the extent effective as a hedge, are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). Any ineffective portion of designated hedges is recognized in current-period earnings. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not designated for hedge accounting are recognized in current-period earnings.
Cash flows from derivative contracts are included in Net cash provided by operating activities.
Advertising Production Costs — Advertising production costs are expensed in the period that the advertisement first takes place or when a decision is made not to use an advertisement.
Research and Development Costs — The costs of research and development are expensed as incurred. Costs include expenditures for new product and manufacturing process innovation, and improvements to existing products and processes. Costs primarily consist of salaries, wages, consulting, and depreciation and maintenance of research facilities and equipment.
Income Taxes — Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future impact of differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, as well as for operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.
Changes in Accounting Policy  — In the first quarter of 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. Results have been adjusted retrospectively to reflect these revisions.
2.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance for the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of certain obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount is fixed. Such obligations may include debt arrangements, legal settlements, and other contractual arrangements. The guidance was effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. We adopted the guidance in 2015. The adoption did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In March 2013, the FASB issued guidance on the accounting for the cumulative translation adjustment upon derecognition of certain subsidiaries or groups of assets within a foreign entity or of an investment in a foreign entity. The guidance was effective prospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. We adopted the guidance in 2015. The adoption did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In July 2013, the FASB issued guidance on the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. The guidance requires the netting of unrecognized tax benefits

38






(UTBs) against a deferred tax asset for a loss or other carryforward that would apply in settlement of uncertain tax positions. Under the new standard, UTBs will be netted against all available same-jurisdiction loss or other tax carryforwards that would be utilized, rather than only against carryforwards that are created by the UTBs. The guidance was effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. We adopted the guidance in 2015. The adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In April 2014, the FASB issued revised guidance that modifies the criteria for determining which disposals can be presented as discontinued operations and requires additional disclosures. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2014, and interim periods within those years. We will prospectively apply the guidance to applicable transactions.
In May 2014, the 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 adopted the guidance in 2016. As a result, we have retrospectively adjusted Other assets and Long-term debt as of August 2, 2015. The adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In April 2015, the FASB issued guidance intended to provide a practical expedient for the measurement date of defined benefit plan assets and obligations. The practical expedient allows employers with fiscal year-end dates that do not fall on a calendar month-end to measure pension and postretirement benefit plan assets and obligations as of the calendar month-end date closest to the fiscal year-end.The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted. We adopted the guidance in connection with our 2015 measurement. The adoption did not 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 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 May 2015, the FASB issued guidance that eliminates the requirement to categorize investments measured using the net asset value (NAV) practical expedient in the fair value hierarchy table. Entities will be required to disclose the fair value of investments measured using the NAV practical expedient so that financial statement users can reconcile amounts reported in the fair value hierarchy table to amounts reported on the balance sheet. The new guidance will be applied retrospectively and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We adopted the guidance in 2015 and modified our disclosures in Note 11.
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 in the balance sheet. Previous guidance required deferred tax liabilities and assets to be separated into current and noncurrent amounts in 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. We adopted the guidance in 2016 on a prospective basis and modified the presentation of deferred taxes in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of July 31, 2016. As of August 2, 2015, the balance of current deferred taxes was $114.
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

39






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.
In August 2016, the FASB issued guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and payments in the statement of cash flows. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted. The guidance must be applied retrospectively to all periods presented but may be applied prospectively if retrospective application would be impracticable. 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.
The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of identifiable net assets was recorded as $116 of goodwill. The goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The goodwill was primarily attributable to future growth opportunities, anticipated synergies, and intangible assets that did not qualify for separate recognition. The goodwill is included in the Campbell Fresh segment.
The contribution of the Garden Fresh Gourmet acquisition to Net sales and Net earnings from June 29, 2015, through August 2, 2015 was not material.
On August 8, 2013, we completed the acquisition of Kelsen. The final all-cash purchase price was $331. Kelsen is a producer of quality baked snacks that are sold in approximately 85 countries around the world. Its primary brands include Kjeldsens and Royal Dansk.
The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of identifiable net assets was recorded as $140 of goodwill. The goodwill is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The goodwill was primarily attributable to future growth opportunities and intangible assets that did not qualify for separate recognition. The goodwill is included in the Global Biscuits and Snacks segment.
The acquisition of Kelsen contributed $193 to Net sales and $8 to Net earnings from August 8, 2013, through August 3, 2014.

40






The acquired assets and assumed liabilities include the following:
 
 
Garden Fresh Gourmet
 
Kelsen
Cash
 
$

 
$
2

Accounts receivable
 
10

 
20

Inventories
 
5

 
50

Other current assets
 

 
2

Plant assets
 
22

 
47

Goodwill
 
116

 
140

Other intangible assets
 
86

 
173

Short-term debt
 

 
(32
)
Accounts payable
 
(6
)
 
(13
)
Accrued liabilities
 
(1
)
 
(10
)
Long-term debt
 

 
(4
)
Deferred income taxes
 

 
(44
)
Total assets acquired and liabilities assumed
 
$
232

 
$
331

The identifiable intangible assets of Garden Fresh Gourmet consist of $38 in non-amortizable trademarks, and $48 in customer relationships to be amortized over 20 years.
The identifiable intangible assets of Kelsen consist of $147 in non-amortizable trademarks, $4 in amortizable trademarks to be amortized over 10 years and $22 in customer relationships to be amortized over 10 to 15 years.
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, and the Kelsen acquisition had occurred on July 30, 2012:
 
 
2015
 
2014
Net sales
 
$
8,174

 
$
8,372

Earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company
 
$
668

 
$
789

Earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company - assuming dilution
 
$
2.13

 
$
2.50

The pro forma amounts include additional interest expense on the debt issued to finance the purchases, 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, and the Kelsen acquisition been completed on July 30, 2012, nor are they indicative of future combined results.
4.
Discontinued Operations
On October 28, 2013, we completed the sale of our European simple meals business to Soppa Investments S.à r.l., an affiliate of CVC Capital Partners. The all-cash preliminary sale price was €400, or $548, and was subject to certain post-closing adjustments, which resulted in a $14 reduction of proceeds. We recognized a pre-tax gain of $141 ($72 after tax, or $.23 per share) in 2014. The European business included Erasco and Heisse Tasse soups in Germany; Liebig and Royco soups in France; Devos Lemmens mayonnaise and cold sauces and Royco soups in Belgium; and Blå Band and Isomitta soups and sauces in Sweden. We used the proceeds from the sale to pay taxes on the sale, to reduce debt and for other general corporate purposes.
We have reflected the results of the European simple meals business as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

41






Results of discontinued operations were as follows:
 
 
2014
Net sales
 
$
137

 
 
 
Gain on sale of the European simple meals business
 
$
141

Earnings from operations, before taxes
 
14

Earnings before taxes
 
$
155

Taxes on earnings
 
(74
)
Earnings from discontinued operations
 
$
81

5.
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 Plan Adjustments(3)
 
Total Accumulated Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at August 3, 2014
 
$
144

 
$
(3
)
 
$
4

 
$
145

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(310
)
 
(2
)
 

 
(312
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 

 

 
(1
)
 
(1
)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(310
)
 
(2
)
 
(1
)
 
(313
)
Balance at August 2, 2015
 
$
(166
)
 
$
(5
)
 
$
3

 
$
(168
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
42

 
(29
)
 
59

 
72

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 

 
(7
)
 
(1
)
 
(8
)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)
 
42

 
(36
)
 
58

 
64

Balance at July 31, 2016
 
$
(124
)
 
$
(41
)
 
$
61

 
$
(104
)
_____________________________________
(1) 
Included a tax expense of $6 as of July 31, 2016 and as of August 2, 2015, and $7 as of August 3, 2014.
(2) 
Included a tax benefit of $23 as of July 31, 2016, $5 as of August 2, 2015, and $1 as of August 3, 2014.
(3) 
Included a tax expense of $35 as of July 31, 2016, $1 as of August 2, 2015, and $2 as of August 3, 2014.
Amounts related to noncontrolling interests were not material.
The amounts reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of the following:
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Components
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
 
Location of (Gain) Loss Recognized in Earnings
(Gains) losses on cash flow hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
$
(11
)
 
$
(4
)
 
$
(4
)
 
Cost of products sold
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
(2
)
 
(1
)
 
1

 
Other expenses / (income)
Forward starting interest rate swaps
 
4

 
4

 
3

 
Interest expense
Total before tax
 
(9
)
 
(1
)
 

 
 
Tax expense (benefit)
 
2

 
1

 

 
 
(Gain) loss, net of tax
 
$
(7
)
 
$

 
$

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

 
1

 
1

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

42






_____________________________________
(1) 
This is included in the components of net periodic benefit costs (see Note 11 for additional details).
In 2014, a pre-tax loss of $22 ($19 after tax) on foreign currency translation adjustments was also reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income. The loss was related to the divestiture of the European simple meals business and was included in Earnings from discontinued operations.
6.
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 3, 2014
$
794

 
$
918

 
$
721

 
$
2,433

Acquisition

 

 
116

 
116

Foreign currency translation adjustment
(19
)
 
(186
)
 

 
(205
)
Balance at August 2, 2015
$
775

 
$
732

 
$
837

 
$
2,344

Impairment

 

 
(106
)
 
(106
)
Foreign currency translation adjustment

 
25

 

 
25

Balance at July 31, 2016(1)
$
775

 
$
757

 
$
731

 
$
2,263

_______________________________________
(1) 
The total carrying value of goodwill as of July 31, 2016 is reflected net of $106 of accumulated impairment charges recorded in 2016.
In 2015, we acquired the assets of Garden Fresh Gourmet for $232. Goodwill related to the acquisition was $116. See Note 3.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, as part of our annual review of intangible assets, an impairment charge of $106 was recorded on goodwill for the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit within the Campbell Fresh segment. In 2016, carrot performance primarily reflected the adverse impact of weather conditions on crop yields, and execution issues in response to those conditions, which led to customer dissatisfaction, a loss of business, and higher carrot costs in the second half of the year. These factors resulted in a decline in profitability during the second half of the year which was below our expectations. Although we expect sales and margins to improve over time, after this weak performance we revised our 2017 outlook and long-term expectations in the fourth quarter. The impairment was attributable to this revised future outlook for the business, with reduced expectations for sales, margins, and discounted cash flows. The discounted estimates of future cash flows include significant management assumptions such as revenue growth rates, operating margins, weighted average cost of capital, and future economic and market conditions. The impairment charge was recorded in Other expenses / (income) in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.
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
 
2016
 
2015
Amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Customer relationships
 
$
222

 
$
222

Technology
 
40

 
40

Other
 
35

 
35

Total gross amortizable intangible assets
 
$
297

 
$
297

Accumulated amortization
 
(72
)
 
(52
)
Total net amortizable intangible assets
 
$
225

 
$
245

Non-amortizable intangible assets
 
 
 
 
Trademarks
 
927

 
960

Total net intangible assets
 
$
1,152

 
$
1,205


43






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 of continuing operations was $20 for 2016, $17 for 2015 and $18 for 2014. Amortization expense for the next 5 years is estimated to be $20 in 2017, and $15 in 2018 through 2021. Asset useful lives range from 5 to 20 years.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, as part of our annual review of intangible assets, an impairment charge of $35 was recognized on the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit trademark. The impairment was attributable to the revised future outlook for the business, with reduced expectations for sales, margins, and discounted cash flows. As part of our annual review of intangible assets, an impairment charge of $6 was recognized in the fourth quarter of 2015 related to minor trademarks used in the Global Biscuits and Snacks segment. The trademarks were determined to be impaired as a result of a decrease in the fair value of the brands, resulting from reduced expectations for future sales and discounted cash flows. The impairment charges were recorded in Other expenses / (income) in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.
The discounted estimates of future cash flows used in determining the fair value of goodwill and intangible assets involve considerable management judgment and are based upon assumptions about expected future operating performance, economic conditions, market conditions and cost of capital. Inherent in estimating the future cash flows are uncertainties beyond our control, such as changes in capital markets. The actual cash flows could differ materially from management’s estimates due to changes in business conditions, operating performance and economic conditions.
7.
Business and Geographic Segment Information
Beginning in 2016, we manage our businesses in three segments focused mainly on product categories. The segments are:
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages segment includes the retail and food service 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; and
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. Only the service cost component of pension and postretirement expense is allocated to segments. All other components of expense, including interest cost, expected return on assets, amortization of prior service credits and recognized actuarial gains and losses will be 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. Therefore, only geographic segment asset information is included in the disclosure.
Our largest customer, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and its affiliates, accounted for approximately 20% of consolidated net sales in 2016 and 2015, and 19% in 2014. All of our reportable segments sold products to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. or its affiliates.
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
4,380

 
$
4,483

 
$
4,588

Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
2,564

 
2,631

 
2,725

Campbell Fresh
 
1,017

 
968

 
955

Total
 
$
7,961

 
$
8,082

 
$
8,268


44






 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Earnings before interest and taxes
 
 
 
 
 
 
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
1,069

 
$
948

 
$
1,030

Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
422

 
383

 
366

Campbell Fresh
 
60

 
61

 
68

Corporate(1)
 
(560
)
 
(236
)
 
(142
)
Restructuring charges(2)
 
(31
)
 
(102
)
 
(55
)
Total
 
$
960

 
$
1,054

 
$
1,267

 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Depreciation and amortization
 
 
 
 
 
 
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
117

 
$
123

 
$
120

Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
96

 
94

 
101

Campbell Fresh
 
77

 
70

 
69

Corporate(3)
 
18

 
16

 
15

Total
 
$
308

 
$
303

 
$
305

 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Capital expenditures
 
 
 
 
 
 
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
 
$
105

 
$
137

 
$
136

Global Biscuits and Snacks
 
122

 
137

 
127

Campbell Fresh
 
74

 
82

 
55

Corporate(3)
 
40

 
24

 
28

Discontinued Operations
 

 

 
1

Total
 
$
341

 
$
380

 
$
347

_______________________________________
(1) 
Represents unallocated items. Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments are included in Corporate. Losses were $313, $138 and $31 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Costs of $47 and $22 related to the implementation of our new organizational structure and cost savings initiatives were included in 2016 and 2015, respectively. A gain of $25 from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition and an impairment charge of $141 on the intangible assets of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit were also included in 2016. In addition, a loss of $9 on foreign exchange forward contracts related to the sale of the European simple meals business and restructuring-related costs of $3 were included in 2014. See Note 6 for information on the impairment charge.
(2) 
See Note 8 for additional information.
(3) 
Represents primarily corporate offices.
Our global net sales based on product categories are as follows:
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
Soup
 
$
2,690

 
$
2,798

 
$
2,891

Baked snacks
 
2,479

 
2,502

 
2,571

Other simple meals
 
1,702

 
1,648

 
1,620

Beverages
 
1,090

 
1,134

 
1,186

Total
 
$
7,961

 
$
8,082

 
$
8,268

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.

45






Geographic Area Information
Information about operations in different geographic areas is as follows:
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
United States
 
$
6,437

 
$
6,400

 
$
6,432

Australia
 
590

 
646

 
709

Other countries
 
934

 
1,036

 
1,127

Total
 
$
7,961

 
$
8,082

 
$
8,268

 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Long-lived assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
United States
 
$
1,967

 
$
1,942

 
$
1,844

Australia
 
242

 
232

 
306

Other countries
 
198

 
173

 
168

Total
 
$
2,407

 
$
2,347

 
$
2,318

8.
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 structure, 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 structure, we designed and implemented a new Integrated Global Services organization to deliver shared services across the company. 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 250 positions. In 2016, we recorded a restructuring charge of $35 related to these initiatives. In 2015, we recorded a restructuring charge of $102 related to these initiatives.
In 2016, we also incurred charges of $47 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 these initiatives.
The aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs recorded in 2016 was $52, or $.17 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
July 31, 2016
Severance pay and benefits
$
128

Implementation costs and other related costs
78

Total
$
206

The total estimated pre-tax costs for the 2015 initiatives are approximately $250 to $300. We expect to incur these costs through 2018.
We expect the costs to consist of approximately $135 to $145 in severance pay and benefits, and approximately $115 to $155 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 30%; Global Biscuits and Snacks - approximately 32%; Campbell Fresh - approximately 3%; and Corporate - approximately 35%.

46






A summary of the restructuring activity and related reserves associated with the 2015 initiatives at July 31, 2016, is as follows:
 
 
Severance Pay and Benefits
 
Other Restructuring Costs
 
Non-Cash Benefits(3)
 
Implementation Costs and Other Related Costs(4)
 
Total Charges
Accrued balance at August 3, 2014
 
$

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
2015 charges
 
87

 
8

 
7

 
22

 
$
124

2015 cash payments
 
(1
)
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
 
(1
)
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued balance at August 2, 2015(1)
 
$
85

 
$
8

 
 
 
 
 
 
2016 charges
 
34

 
1

 

 
47

 
$
82

2016 cash payments
 
(46
)
 
(9
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued balance at July 31, 2016(2)
 
$
73

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
_______________________________________
(1)
Includes $45 of severance pay and benefits recorded in Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
(2)  
Includes $17 of severance pay and benefits recorded in Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
(3)  
Represents postretirement and pension curtailment costs. See Note 11.
(4) 
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.
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:
 
2016
 
Costs Incurred to Date
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
17

 
$
71

Global Biscuits and Snacks
22

 
66

Campbell Fresh
1

 
2

Corporate
42

 
67

Total
$
82

 
$
206

2014 Initiatives
In 2014, we implemented initiatives to reduce overhead across the organization, restructure manufacturing and streamline operations for our soup and broth business in China and improve supply chain efficiency in Australia. Details of the 2014 initiatives include:
We streamlined our salaried workforce in North America and our workforce in the Asia Pacific region. Approximately 250 positions were eliminated.
Together with our joint venture partner Swire Pacific Limited, we restructured manufacturing and streamlined operations for our soup and broth business in China. As a result, certain assets were impaired, and approximately 100 positions were eliminated.
In Australia, we commenced an initiative to improve supply chain efficiency by relocating production from our biscuit plant in Marleston to Huntingwood. The relocation will continue through 2017 and will result in the elimination of approximately 45 positions.
We implemented an initiative to reduce overhead across the organization by eliminating approximately 85 positions. The actions were completed in 2015.

47






In 2016, we recorded a reduction to restructuring charges of $4 ($3 after tax, or $.01 per share) related to the 2014 initiatives. In 2014, we recorded a restructuring charge of $54 ($33 after tax, or $.10 per share, in earnings from continuing operations attributable to Campbell Soup Company) related to the 2014 initiatives. As of July 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 July 31, 2016
Severance pay and benefits
$
41

 
$
(4
)
 
$
37

Asset impairment
12

 

 
12

Other exit costs
1

 

 
1

Total
$
54

 
$
(4
)
 
$
50

_______________________________________
(1) 
Recognized as of August 2, 2015.
A summary of the restructuring activity and related reserves associated with the 2014 initiatives at July 31, 2016, is as follows:
 
 
Severance Pay and Benefits
 
Asset Impairment
 
Other Exit Costs(1)
 
Total Charges
Accrued balance at July 28, 2013
 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
2014 charges
 
41

 
12

 
1

 
$
54

2014 cash payments
 
(13
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued balance at August 3, 2014
 
$
28

 
 
 
 
 
 
2015 cash payments
 
(16
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
 
(2
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued balance at August 2, 2015(2)
 
$
10

 
 
 
 
 
 
2016 reduction to charges
 
(4
)
 

 

 
$
(4
)
2016 cash payments
 
(4
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
 
(1
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued balance at July 31, 2016
 
$
1

 
 
 
 
 
 
_______________________________________
(1)
Includes non-cash costs that are not reflected in the restructuring reserve in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
(2) 
Includes $4 of severance pay and benefits recorded in Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Segment operating results do not include restructuring charges because we evaluate segment performance excluding such charges. A summary of restructuring charges associated with segments is as follows:
 
2016
 
Total Program
Americas Simple Meals and Beverages
$
(1
)
 
$
13

Global Biscuits and Snacks
(3
)
 
35

Campbell Fresh

 
1

Corporate

 
1

Total
$
(4
)
 
$
50

2013 Initiatives
In 2013, we implemented initiatives to improve supply chain efficiency, expand access to manufacturing and distribution capabilities and reduce costs.
In 2014, we recorded a restructuring charge of $1 related to the 2013 initiatives. In addition, we recorded approximately $3 of costs related to the 2013 initiatives in Cost of products sold, representing other exit costs. The aggregate after-tax impact of restructuring charges and related costs recorded in 2014 was $3, or $.01 per share.

48






A summary of the pre-tax costs associated with the 2013 initiatives recognized is as follows:
 
Total Program
Severance pay and benefits
$
31

Accelerated depreciation/asset impairment
99

Other exit costs
12

Total
$
142

In 2015, we substantially completed the 2013 initiatives.
9.
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. The earnings per share calculation for 2016 excludes 355 thousand stock options that would have been antidilutive. There were no antidilutive stock options in 2015 or 2014.
10.
Noncontrolling Interests
We own a 60% controlling interest in a joint venture formed with Swire Pacific Limited to support the development of our soup and broth business in China. We contributed cash of $14 and $7 in 2015 and 2014, respectively, and the joint venture partner contributed cash of $9 and $5 in 2015 and 2014, respectively. In 2014, together with our joint venture partner, we restructured manufacturing and streamlined operations for our soup and broth business in China. The after-tax restructuring charge attributable to the noncontrolling interest was $5. See also Note 8.
We own a 70% controlling interest in a Malaysian food products manufacturing company.
We also own a 99.8% interest in 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. See also Note 15.
The noncontrolling interests' share in the net earnings (loss) was included in Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. The noncontrolling interests in these entities were included in Total equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Equity.
11.
Pension and Postretirement Benefits
Pension Benefits — We sponsor a number of noncontributory defined benefit pension plans to provide retirement benefits to all eligible U.S. and non-U.S. employees. The benefits provided under these plans are based primarily on years of service and compensation levels. Benefits are paid from funds previously provided to trustees and insurance companies or are paid directly by us from general funds. In 1999, we implemented significant amendments to certain U.S. pension plans. Under a new formula, retirement benefits are determined based on percentages of annual pay and age. To minimize the impact of converting to the new formula, service and earnings credit continued to accrue through the year 2014 for certain active employees participating in the plans under the old formula prior to the amendments. Employees will receive the benefit from either the new or old formula, whichever is higher. Benefits become vested upon the completion of three years of service. Effective as of January 1, 2011, our U.S. pension plans were amended so that employees hired or rehired on or after that date and who are not covered by collective bargaining agreements will not be eligible to participate in the plans.
Postretirement Benefits — We provide postretirement benefits, including health care and life insurance, to substantially all retired U.S. employees and their dependents. We established retiree medical account benefits for eligible U.S. retirees. The accounts were intended to provide reimbursement for eligible health care expenses on a tax-favored basis. Effective as of January 1, 2011, the retirement medical program was amended to eliminate the retiree medical account benefit for employees not covered by collective bargaining agreements. To preserve the benefit for employees close to retirement age, the retiree medical account will be available to employees who were at least age 50 with at least 10 years of service as of December 31, 2010, and who satisfy the other eligibility requirements for the retiree medical program. In July 2016, the retirement medical program was amended and beginning on January 1, 2017, we will no longer sponsor our own medical coverage for certain Medicare-eligible retirees. Instead, we will offer these Medicare-eligible retirees access to health care coverage through a private exchange and offer a health reimbursement account to subsidize benefits for a select group of retirees.
We use the fiscal year end as the measurement date for the benefit plans.

49






Components of net benefit expense (income) were as follows:
 
Pension
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Service cost
$
26

 
$
28

 
$
42

Interest cost
98

 
105

 
115

Expected return on plan assets
(147
)
 
(173
)
 
(169
)
Amortization of prior service credit

 
(1
)
 
(1
)
Recognized net actuarial loss
302

 
136

 
48

Curtailment loss

 
1

 

Net periodic benefit expense
$
279

 
$
96

 
$
35

The curtailment loss of $1 in 2015 was related to a voluntary employee separation program and was included in Restructuring charges. See also Note 8.
 
Postretirement
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Service cost
$
1

 
$
2

 
$
2

Interest cost
15

 
15

 
17

Amortization of prior service credit
(1
)
 
(1
)
 
(1
)
Recognized net actuarial loss
23

 
7

 
5

Curtailment loss

 
6

 

Net periodic benefit expense
$
38

 
$
29

 
$
23

The curtailment loss of $6 in 2015 was related to a voluntary employee separation program and was included in Restructuring charges. See also Note 8.
The estimated prior service credit that will be amortized from Accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic postretirement expense during 2017 is $25. The prior service credit is primarily related to the amendment in July 2016.
Change in benefit obligation:
 
 
Pension
 
Postretirement
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Obligation at beginning of year
 
$
2,569

 
$
2,539

 
$
392

 
$
388

Service cost
 
26

 
28

 
1

 
2

Interest cost
 
98

 
105

 
15

 
15

Actuarial loss
 
210

 
106

 
23

 
7

Participant contributions
 

 

 
1

 
3

Plan amendments
 

 

 
(93
)
 

Benefits paid
 
(116
)
 
(151
)
 
(30
)
 
(33
)
Settlements
 
(160
)
 

 

 

Medicare subsidies
 

 

 
4

 
4

Other
 
(6
)
 
(1
)
 

 

Curtailment
 

 
1

 

 
6

Foreign currency adjustment
 
5

 
(58
)
 

 

Benefit obligation at end of year
 
$
2,626

 
$
2,569

 
$
313

 
$
392


50






Change in the fair value of pension plan assets:
 
 
2016
 
2015
Fair value at beginning of year
 
$
2,316

 
$
2,364

Actual return on plan assets
 
54

 
143

Employer contributions
 
2

 
5

Benefits paid
 
(106
)
 
(141
)
Settlements
 
(160
)
 

Foreign currency adjustment
 
5

 
(55
)
Fair value at end of year
 
$
2,111

 
$
2,316

Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
 
 
Pension
 
Postretirement
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Accrued liabilities
 
$
14

 
$
20

 
$
28

 
$
30

Other liabilities
 
501

 
233

 
285

 
362

Amounts recognized
 
$
515

 
$
253

 
$
313

 
$
392


Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consist of:
 
Pension
 
Postretirement
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Prior service credit
 
$

 
$

 
$
96

 
$
4

The change in amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) associated with postretirement benefits was due to the plan amendment in July 2016.
The following table provides information for pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:
 
 
2016
 
2015
Projected benefit obligation
 
$
2,434

 
$
1,926

Accumulated benefit obligation
 
$
2,385

 
$
1,906

Fair value of plan assets
 
$
1,933

 
$
1,684

The accumulated benefit obligation for all pension plans was $2,557 at July 31, 2016, and $2,516 at August 2, 2015.
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at the end of the year:
 
 
Pension
 
Postretirement
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Discount rate
 
3.39%
 
4.19%
 
3.20%
 
4.00%
Rate of compensation increase
 
3.25%
 
3.29%
 
3.25%
 
3.25%
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for the years ended:
 
 
Pension
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Discount rate
 
4.19%
 
4.33%
 
4.82%
Expected return on plan assets
 
7.35%
 
7.62%
 
7.62%
Rate of compensation increase
 
3.29%
 
3.30%
 
3.30%
The discount rate is established as of our fiscal year-end measurement date. In establishing the discount rate, we review published market indices of high-quality debt securities, adjusted as appropriate for duration. In addition, independent actuaries apply high-quality bond yield curves to the expected benefit payments of the plans. The expected return on plan assets is a long-term assumption based upon historical experience and expected future performance, considering our current and projected investment mix. This estimate is based on an estimate of future inflation, long-term projected real returns for each asset class, and a premium for active management.
The discount rate used to determine net periodic postretirement expense was 4.00% in 2016 and 2015, and 4.50% in 2014.

51






Assumed health care cost trend rates at the end of the year:
 
 
2016
 
2015
Health care cost trend rate assumed for next year
 
7.25%
 
7.75%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (ultimate trend rate)
 
4.50%
 
4.50%
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate
 
2022
 
2022
A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care costs would have the following effects on 2016 reported amounts:
 
 
Increase
 
Decrease
Effect on service and interest cost
 
$

 
$

Effect on the 2016 accumulated benefit obligation
 
$
12

 
$
(11
)
Pension Plan Assets
The fundamental goal underlying the investment policy is to ensure that the assets of the plans are invested in a prudent manner to meet the obligations of the plans as these obligations come due. The primary investment objectives include providing a total return which will promote the goal of benefit security by attaining an appropriate ratio of plan assets to plan obligations, to provide for real asset growth while also tracking plan obligations, to diversify investments across and within asset classes, to reduce the impact of losses in single investments, and to follow investment practices that comply with applicable laws and regulations.
The primary policy objectives will be met by investing assets to achieve a reasonable tradeoff between return and risk relative to plan obligations. This includes investing a portion of the assets in funds selected in part to hedge the interest rate sensitivity to plan obligations.
The portfolio includes investments in the following asset classes: fixed income, equity, real estate and alternatives. Fixed income will provide a moderate expected return and partially hedge the exposure to interest rate risk of the plans’ obligations. Equities are used for their high expected return. Additional asset classes are used to provide diversification.
Asset allocation is monitored on an ongoing basis relative to the established asset class targets. The interaction between plan assets and benefit obligations is periodically studied to assist in the establishment of strategic asset allocation targets. The investment policy permits variances from the targets within certain parameters. Asset rebalancing occurs when the underlying asset class allocations move outside these parameters, at which time the asset allocation is rebalanced back to the policy target weight.
Our year-end pension plan weighted-average asset allocations by category were:
 
Strategic Target
 
2016
 
2015
Equity securities
51%
 
51%
 
50%
Debt securities
35%
 
35%
 
34%
Real estate and other
14%
 
14%
 
16%
Net periodic benefit expense
100%
 
100%
 
100%
Pension plan assets are categorized 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 our estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

52






The following table presents our pension plan assets by asset category at July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015:
 
Fair Value
as of
July 31,
2016
 
Fair Value Measurements at
July 31, 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
Short-term investments
$
43

 
$
41

 
$
2

 
$

 
$
32

 
$
32

 
$

 
$

Equities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S.
349

 
349

 

 

 
386

 
386

 

 

Non-U.S.
273

 
273

 

 

 
312

 
312

 

 

Corporate bonds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S.
469

 

 
469

 

 
494

 

 
494

 

Non-U.S.
98

 

 
98

 

 
102

 

 
102

 

Government and agency bonds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S.
49

 

 
49

 

 
42

 

 
42

 

Non-U.S.
29

 

 
29

 

 
36

 

 
36

 

Municipal bonds
67

 

 
67

 

 
68

 

 
68

 

Mortgage and asset backed securities
7

 

 
7

 

 
9

 

 
9

 

Real estate
19

 
13

 

 
6

 
14

 
8

 

 
6

Hedge funds
45

 

 

 
45

 
39

 

 

 
39

Derivative assets
6

 

 
6

 

 
5

 

 
5

 

Derivative liabilities
(7
)
 

 
(7
)
 

 
(6
)
 

 
(6
)
 

Total assets at fair value
$
1,447

 
$
676

 
$
720

 
$
51

 
$
1,533

 
$
738

 
$
750

 
$
45

Investments measured at net asset value:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Short-term investments
20

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
28

 
 
 
 
 
 
Commingled funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equities
309

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
375

 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed income
31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
31

 
 
 
 
 
 
Blended
79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
79

 
 
 
 
 
 
Real estate
108

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
117

 
 
 
 
 
 
Hedge funds
144

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
175

 
 
 
 
 
 
Total investments measured at net asset value:
691

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
805

 
 
 
 
 
 
Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets
(27
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(22
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total pension assets at fair value
$
2,111

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
2,316

 
 
 
 
 
 
Short-term investments — Investments include cash and cash equivalents, and various short-term debt instruments and short-term investment funds. Institutional short-term investment vehicles valued daily are classified as Level 1 at cost which approximates market value. Short-term debt instruments are classified at Level 2 and are valued based on bid quotations and recent trade data for identical or similar obligations. Other investments valued based upon net asset value are included as a reconciling item to the fair value table.
Equities — Common stocks and preferred stocks are classified as Level 1 and are valued using quoted market prices in active markets.
Corporate bonds — These investments are valued based on quoted market prices, yield curves and pricing models using current market rates.
Government and agency bonds — These investments are generally valued based on bid quotations and recent trade data for identical or similar obligations.

53






Municipal bonds — These investments are valued based on quoted market prices, yield curves and pricing models using current market rates.
Mortgage and asset backed securities — These investments are valued based on prices obtained from third party pricing sources. The prices from third party pricing sources may be based on bid quotes from dealers and recent trade data. Mortgage backed securities are traded in the over-the-counter market.
Real estate — Real estate investments consist of real estate investment trusts, property funds and limited partnerships. Real estate investment trusts are classified as Level 1 and are valued based on quoted market prices. Property funds are classified as either Level 2 or Level 3 depending upon whether liquidity is limited or there are few observable market participant transactions. Property funds are valued based on third party appraisals. Limited partnerships are valued based upon valuations provided by the general partners of the funds. The values of limited partnerships are based upon an assessment of each underlying investment, incorporating valuations that consider the evaluation of financing and sales transactions with third parties, expected cash flows, and market-based information, including comparable transactions and performance multiples among other factors. The investments are classified as Level 3 since the valuation is determined using unobservable inputs. Real estate investments valued at net asset value are included as a reconciling item to the fair value table.
Hedge funds — Hedge fund investments include hedge funds valued based upon a net asset value derived from the fair value of underlying securities. Hedge fund investments that are subject to liquidity restrictions or that are based on unobservable inputs are classified as Level 3. Hedge fund investments may include long and short positions in equity and fixed income securities, derivative instruments such as futures and options, commodities and other types of securities. Hedge fund investments valued at net asset value are included as a reconciling item to the fair value table.
Derivatives — Derivative financial instruments include forward currency contracts, futures contracts, options contracts, interest rate swaps and credit default swaps. Derivative financial instruments are classified as Level 2 and are valued based on observable market transactions or prices.
Commingled funds — Investments in commingled funds are not traded in active markets. Blended commingled funds are invested in both equities and fixed income securities. Commingled funds are valued based on the net asset values of such funds and are included as a reconciling item to the fair value table.
Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets included amounts due for securities sold, amounts payable for securities purchased, and other payables.
The following table summarizes the changes in fair value of Level 3 investments for the years ended July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015:
 
 
Real Estate
 
Hedge Funds
 
Total
Fair value at August 2, 2015
 
$
6

 
$
39

 
$
45

Actual return on plan assets
 
1

 
1

 
2

Purchases
 

 
5

 
5

Sales
 
(1
)
 

 
(1
)
Settlements
 

 

 

Transfers out of Level 3
 

 

 

Fair value at July 31, 2016
 
$
6

 
$
45

 
$
51

 
 
Real Estate
 
Hedge Funds
 
Total
Fair value at August 3, 2014
 
$
3

 
$
30

 
$
33

Actual return on plan assets
 
1

 
2

 
3

Purchases
 
2

 
7

 
9

Sales
 

 

 

Settlements
 

 

 

Transfers out of Level 3
 

 

 

Fair value at August 2, 2015
 
$
6

 
$
39

 
$
45


54






The following table presents additional information about the pension plan assets valued using net asset value as a practical expedient within the fair value hierarchy table.
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value
 
Unfunded Commitments
 
Fair Value
 
Unfunded Commitments
 
Redemption Frequency
 
Redemption Notice Period Range
Short-term investments
 
$
20

 
$

 
$
28

 
$

 
Daily
 
1 Day
Commingled funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equities
 
309

 

 
375

 

 
Daily,
Monthly
 
1
to
60 Days
Fixed income
 
31

 

 
31

 

 
Daily
 
1 Day
Blended
 
79

 

 
79

 

 
Primarily Daily
 
1 Day
Real estate funds(1)
 
108

 

 
117

 
3

 
Primarily Quarterly
 
1
to
90 Days
Hedge funds(2)
 
144

 

 
175

 
25

 
Monthly,
Quarterly
 
5
to
65 Days
Total
 
$
691

 
$

 
$
805

 
$
28

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
___________________________________ 
(1) 
Includes real estate investments valued at $34 for which a redemption queue has been imposed by the investment manager increasing the redemption receipt period to up to 9 months after notice.
(2) 
Includes a fund valued at $45 which is being liquidated. Distributions from the fund will be received as the underlying investments are liquidated which is estimated to occur by December 31, 2016.
No contributions are expected to be made to U.S. pension plans in 2017. We expect contributions to non-U.S. pension plans to be approximately $5 in 2017.
Estimated future benefit payments are as follows:
 
 
Pension
 
Postretirement
2017
 
$
176

 
$
28

2018
 
$
164

 
$
28

2019
 
$
168

 
$
27

2020
 
$
161

 
$
26

2021
 
$
161

 
$
24

2022-2026
 
$
808

 
$
99

The estimated future benefit payments include payments from funded and unfunded plans.
401(k) Retirement Plan — We sponsor employee savings plans that cover substantially all U.S. employees. Effective January 1, 2011, we provide a matching contribution of 100% of employee contributions up to 4% of compensation for employees who are not covered by collective bargaining agreements. Employees hired or rehired on or after January 1, 2011, who will not be eligible to participate in the defined benefit plans and who are not covered by collective bargaining agreements receive a contribution equal to 3% of compensation regardless of their participation in the 401(k) Retirement Plan. Prior to January 1, 2011, we provided a matching contribution of 60% (50% at certain locations) of the employee contributions up to 5% of compensation after one year of continued service. Amounts charged to Costs and expenses were $33 in 2016, $31 in 2015 and $29 in 2014.

55






12.
Taxes on Earnings
The provision for income taxes on earnings from continuing operations consists of the following:
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Income taxes:
 
 
 
 
 
Currently payable:
 
 
 
 
 
Federal
$
235

 
$
246

 
$
252

State
34

 
31

 
30

Non-U.S. 
47

 
55

 
42

 
316

 
332

 
324

Deferred:
 
 
 
 
 
Federal
(17
)
 
(47
)
 
56

State

 
1

 
3

Non-U.S. 
(13
)
 
(3
)
 
(9
)
 
(30
)
 
(49
)
 
50

 
$
286

 
$
283

 
$
374

 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes:
 
 
 
 
 
 
United States
 
$
705

 
$
803

 
$
1,064

Non-U.S. 
 
144

 
146

 
84

 
 
$
849

 
$
949

 
$
1,148

The following is a reconciliation of the effective income tax rate on continuing operations to the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate:
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Federal statutory income tax rate
35.0
 %
 
35.0
 %
 
35.0
 %
State income taxes (net of federal tax benefit)
2.7

 
2.2

 
2.0

Tax effect of international items
(3.0
)
 
(2.5
)
 
(1.0
)
Settlement of tax contingencies

 
(0.8
)
 

Federal manufacturing deduction
(3.2
)
 
(2.9
)
 
(2.2
)
Goodwill impairment
4.3

 

 

Claim settlement
(0.8
)
 

 

Other
(1.3
)
 
(1.2
)
 
(1.2
)
Effective income tax rate
33.7
 %
 
29.8
 %
 
32.6
 %


56






Deferred tax liabilities and assets are comprised of the following:
 
2016
 
2015
Depreciation
$
362

 
$
306

Amortization
541

 
541

Other
23

 
17

Deferred tax liabilities
926

 
864

Benefits and compensation
266

 
298

Pension benefits
185

 
92

Tax loss carryforwards
37

 
44

Capital loss carryforwards
88

 
85

Other
113

 
101

Gross deferred tax assets
689

 
620

Deferred tax asset valuation allowance
(118
)
 
(122
)
Net deferred tax assets
571

 
498

Net deferred tax liability
$
355

 
$
366

At July 31, 2016, our U.S. and non-U.S. subsidiaries had tax loss carryforwards of approximately $173. Of these carryforwards, $157 expire between 2017 and 2036, and $16 may be carried forward indefinitely. At July 31, 2016, deferred tax asset valuation allowances have been established to offset $143 of these tax loss carryforwards. Additionally, at July 31, 2016, our non-U.S. subsidiaries had capital loss carryforwards of approximately $307, which were fully offset by valuation allowances.
The net change in the deferred tax asset valuation allowance in 2016 was a decrease of $4. The decrease was primarily due to the expiration of tax losses, partially offset by the recognition of additional valuation allowance on tax loss carryforwards. The net change in the deferred tax asset valuation allowance in 2015 was a decrease of $29. The decrease was primarily due to the impact of currency and the expiration of tax losses, partially offset by the recognition of additional valuation allowances on other foreign loss carryforwards.
As of July 31, 2016, other deferred tax assets included $2 of state tax credit carryforwards related to various states that expire between 2018 and 2025. As of August 2, 2015, other deferred tax assets included $2 of state tax credit carryforwards related to various states that expire between 2018 and 2024. No valuation allowances have been established related to these deferred tax assets.
As of July 31, 2016, U.S. income taxes have not been provided on approximately $638 of undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries, which are deemed to be permanently reinvested. It is not practical to estimate the tax liability that might be incurred if such earnings were remitted to the U.S.
A reconciliation of the activity related to unrecognized tax benefits follows:
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Balance at beginning of year
$
58

 
$
71

 
$
61

Increases related to prior-year tax positions
2

 
9

 

Decreases related to prior-year tax positions

 

 
(1
)
Increases related to current-year tax positions
3

 
5

 
11

Settlements

 
(27
)
 

Lapse of statute

 

 

Balance at end of year
$
63

 
$
58

 
$
71

The amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the annual effective tax rate was $42 as of July 31, 2016, $39 as of August 2, 2015, and $23 as of August 3, 2014. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits can change due to audit settlements, tax examination activities, statute expirations and the recognition and measurement criteria under accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. We are unable to estimate what this change may be within the next 12 months, but do not believe that it will be material to the financial statements. Approximately $5 of unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties, were reported as accounts receivable in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015.
Our accounting policy with respect to interest and penalties attributable to income taxes is to reflect any expense or benefit as a component of our income tax provision. The total amount of interest and penalties recognized in the Consolidated Statements

57






of Earnings was $3 in 2016, and $1 in 2015 and 2014. The total amount of interest and penalties recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets was $6 as of July 31, 2016, and $3 as of August 2, 2015.
We do business internationally and, as a result, file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and non-U.S. jurisdictions. In the normal course of business, we are subject to examination by taxing authorities throughout the world, including such major jurisdictions as the U.S., Australia, Canada and Denmark. The 2016 tax year is currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service. In addition, several state income tax examinations are in progress for the years 1999 to 2015.
With limited exceptions, we have been audited for income tax purposes in Australia and Denmark through 2010, and in Canada through 2009.
13.
Short-term Borrowings and Long-term Debt
Short-term borrowings consist of the following:
 
2016
 
2015
Commercial paper
$
770

 
$
1,532

Current portion of long-term debt
400

 

Current portion of Canadian credit facility
42

 

Variable-rate bank borrowings
6

 
1

Fixed-rate bank borrowings

 
9

Capital leases
2

 
1

Other(1)
(1
)
 

Total short-term borrowings
$
1,219

 
$
1,543

_______________________________________
(1) 
Includes unamortized net discount/premium on debt issuances and debt issuance costs.
As of July 31, 2016, the weighted-average interest rate of commercial paper, which consisted of U.S. borrowings, was 0.74%. As of August 2, 2015, the weighted-average interest rate of commercial paper, which consisted of U.S. borrowings, was 0.58%.
At July 31, 2016, we had $1,219 of short-term borrowings due within one year, of which $770 was comprised of commercial paper borrowings. As of July 31, 2016, we issued $47 of standby letters of credit. We have a committed revolving credit facility totaling $2,200 that matures in December 2018. This U.S. facility remained unused at July 31, 2016, except for $3 of standby letters of credit that we issued under it. The U.S. facility supports our commercial paper programs and other general corporate purposes. We may increase the commitment under the U.S. facility up to an additional $500, upon the agreement of either existing lenders or of additional banks not currently parties to the facility. In July 2016, we entered into a committed revolving credit facility totaling CAD $280, or $215, that matures in July 2019. The Canadian facility's commitment mandatorily reduces to CAD $225 in July 2017 and to CAD $185 in July 2018. The Canadian facility supports general corporate purposes. As of July 31, 2016, we borrowed CAD $280, or $215, at a rate of 1.78% pursuant to this facility, of which CAD $55, or $42, is classified as short-term borrowings. In August 2016, we reduced the borrowings and commitment under the Canadian facility by CAD $35, or $27.

58






Long-term debt consists of the following:
Type
 
Fiscal Year of Maturity
 
Rate
 
2016
 
2015
Notes
 
2017
 
3.05%
 
$
400

 
$
400

Notes
 
2019
 
4.50%
 
300

 
300

Notes
 
2021
 
4.25%
 
500

 
500

Debentures
 
2021
 
8.88%
 
200

 
200

Notes
 
2023
 
2.50%
 
450

 
450

Notes
 
2025
 
3.30%
 
300

 
300

Notes
 
2043
 
3.80%
 
400

 
400

Canadian credit facility
 
2019
 
Variable
 
215

 

Capital leases
 
 
 
 
 
8

 
10

Other(1)
 
 
 
 
 
(18
)
 
(21
)
Total
 
 
 
 
 
$
2,755

 
$
2,539

Less current portion(1)
 
 
 
 
 
441

 

Total long-term debt
 
 
 
 
 
$
2,314

 
$
2,539

_______________________________________
(1) 
Includes unamortized net discount/premium on debt issuances and debt issuance costs.
In March 2015, we issued $300 of 3.30% notes that mature on March 19, 2025. Interest on the notes is due semi-annually on March 19 and September 19, commencing on September 19, 2015. The notes may be redeemed in whole, or in part, at our option at any time at the applicable redemption price. In certain circumstances, we may be required to repurchase some or all of the notes upon a change in control of our company and a downgrade of the notes below investment grade. The net proceeds were used for general corporate purposes.
Principal amounts of long-term debt, including the current portion of long-term debt in Short-term borrowings, mature as follows: $444 in 2017; $32 in 2018; $442 in 2019; $1 in 2020; $700 in 2021; and a total of $1,156 in periods beyond 2021.
14.
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 July 31, 2016.
We are also exposed to credit risk from our customers. During 2016, our largest customer accounted for approximately 20% of consolidated net sales. Our five largest customers accounted for approximately 40% of our consolidated net sales in 2016.
We closely monitor credit risk associated with counterparties and customers.
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. The notional

59






amount of foreign exchange forward contracts accounted for as cash-flow hedges was $91 at July 31, 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 contracts that are not designated as accounting hedges was $175 and $230 at July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015, respectively. The notional amount of cross-currency swap contracts that are not designated as accounting hedges was $250 at August 2, 2015. There were no cross-currency swap contracts outstanding as of July 31, 2016.
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 July 31, 2016 and August 2, 2015, respectively, which relates to an anticipated debt issuance in 2018. We settled forward starting interest rate swaps with a notional value of $250 during 2015 at a loss of $4. The effective portion of the loss was recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and will be recognized as additional interest expense over the 10-year life of debt issued in March 2015.
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, aluminum, soybean oil, cocoa, natural gas, 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 July 31, 2016, or August 2, 2015. The notional amount of commodity contracts not designated as accounting hedges was $88 at July 31, 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 amounts of the contracts as of July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015, were $44 and $49, respectively.

60






The following table summarizes the fair value of derivative instruments on a gross basis as recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015:
 
Balance Sheet Classification
 
2016
 
2015
Asset Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Other current assets
 
$
1

 
$
3

Total derivatives designated as hedges
 
 
$
1

 
$
3

Derivatives not designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Commodity derivative contracts
Other current assets
 
$
3

 
$
1

Cross-currency swap contracts
Other current assets
 

 
18

Deferred compensation derivative contracts
Other current assets
 
1

 
1

Foreign exchange forward contracts
Other current assets
 

 
9

Cross-currency swap contracts
Other assets
 

 
22

Total derivatives not designated as hedges
 
 
$
4

 
$
51

Total asset derivatives
 
 
$
5

 
$
54

 
Balance Sheet Classification
 
2016
 
2015
Liability Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Accrued liabilities
 
$
4

 
$

Forward starting interest rate swaps
Other liabilities
 
44

 
8

Total derivatives designated as hedges
 
 
$
48

 
$
8

Derivatives not designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Commodity derivative contracts
Accrued liabilities
 
$
4

 
$
10

Deferred compensation derivative contracts
Accrued liabilities
 
1

 

Foreign exchange forward contracts
Accrued liabilities
 
7

 
2

Total derivatives not designated as hedges
 
 
$
12

 
$
12

Total liability derivatives
 
 
$
60

 
$
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 July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015, would be adjusted as detailed in the following table:
 
 
2016
 
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
 
$
5

 
$
(4
)
 
$
1

 
$
54

 
$
(13
)
 
$
41

Total liability derivatives
 
$
60

 
$
(4
)
 
$
56

 
$
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 July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015, a cash margin account balance of $5 and $12, respectively, was included in Other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

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The following tables show the effect of our derivative instruments designated as cash-flow hedges for the years ended July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015, in other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI) and the Consolidated Statements of Earnings:
Derivatives Designated as Cash-Flow Hedges
  
 
 
Total
Cash-Flow Hedge
OCI Activity
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
OCI derivative gain (loss) at beginning of year
 
 
$
(10
)
 
$
(4
)
 
$
8

Effective portion of changes in fair value recognized in OCI:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
 
(9
)
 
18

 

Forward starting interest rate swaps
 
 
(36
)
 
(23
)
 
(12
)
Amount of (gain) loss reclassified from OCI to earnings:
Location in Earnings
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Cost of products sold
 
(11
)
 
(4
)
 
(4
)
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Other expenses / (income)
 
(2
)
 
(1
)
 
1

Forward starting interest rate swaps
Interest expense
 
4

 
4

 
3

OCI derivative gain (loss) at end of year
 
 
$
(64
)
 
$
(10
)
 
$
(4
)
Based on current valuations, the amount expected to be reclassified from OCI into earnings within the next 12 months is a loss of $13. The ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing were not material.
The following table shows the effect of our derivative instruments designated as fair-value hedges in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings:
 
 
 
 
Amount of
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Earnings
on Derivatives
 
Amount of
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Earnings
on Hedged Item
Derivatives Designated
as Fair-Value Hedges
 
Location of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Earnings
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Interest rate swaps
 
Interest expense
 
$

 
$

 
$
(1
)
 
$

 
$

 
$
1

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
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
Cost of products sold
 
$

 
$
(2
)
 
$
(3
)
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
Other expenses / (income)
 
(1
)
 
3

 
12

Cross-currency swap contracts
 
Other expenses / (income)
 
2

 
(58
)
 
(7
)
Commodity derivative contracts
 
Cost of products sold
 
6

 
19

 
4

Deferred compensation derivative contracts
 
Administrative expenses
 
(6
)
 
(7
)
 
(2
)
Total
 
 
 
$
1

 
$
(45
)
 
$
4

15.
Variable Interest Entity
In February 2016, we agreed to make a $125 capital commitment to 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 July 31, 2016, we funded $35 of the capital commitment. Except for the remaining unfunded capital commitment of $90, we do not have obligations to provide additional financial or other support to Acre.
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 $34 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

62






Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Changes in the fair value were not material through July 31, 2016. The liabilities of Acre were not material.
16.
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 our 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 that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015, consistent with the fair value hierarchy:
 
Fair Value
as of
July 31,
2016
 
Fair Value Measurements at
July 31, 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)
3

 
2

 
1

 

 
1

 
1

 

 

Cross-currency swap contracts(3)

 

 

 

 
40

 

 
40

 

Deferred compensation derivative contracts(4)
1

 

 
1

 

 
1

 

 
1

 

Fair value option investments (5)
33

 

 
8

 
25

 

 

 

 

Total assets at fair value
$
38

 
$
2

 
$
11

 
$
25

 
$
54

 
$
1

 
$
53

 
$


63






 
Fair Value
as of
July 31,
2016
 
Fair Value Measurements at
July 31, 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)
$
44

 
$

 
$
44

 
$

 
$
8

 
$

 
$
8

 
$

Foreign exchange forward contracts(1)
11

 

 
11

 

 
2

 

 
2

 

Commodity derivative contracts(2)
4

 
4

 

 

 
10

 
10

 

 

Deferred compensation derivative contracts(4)
1

 

 
1

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred compensation obligation(7)
119

 
119

 

 

 
120

 
120

 

 

Total liabilities at fair value
$
179

 
$
123

 
$
56

 
$

 
$
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 2016. See Note 15 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 July 31, 2016.
(6) 
Based on LIBOR swap rates.
(7) 
Based on the fair value of the participants’ investments.
Items Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
In addition to assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, we are also required to measure certain items at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, as part of our annual review of intangible assets, we recognized an impairment charge of $106 on goodwill of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit to reduce the carrying value to the implied fair value of $202. The impairment was attributable to a revised future outlook for the business, with reduced expectations for sales, margins, and discounted cash flows. Fair value was determined based on unobservable Level 3 inputs. The discounted estimates of future cash flows include significant management assumptions such as revenue growth rates, operating margins, weighted average cost of capital, and future economic and market conditions.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, as part of our annual review of intangible assets, we recognized an impairment charge of $35 on a trademark within the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit. The carrying value of the trademark was $68 as of July 31, 2016. Fair value was determined based on unobservable Level 3 inputs. Fair value was determined based on discounted cash flow analysis that include significant management assumptions such as revenue growth rates, weighted average cost of capital, and assumed royalty rates.
In the fourth quarter of 2015, as part of our annual review of intangible assets, we recognized an impairment charge of $6 on minor trademarks used in the Global Biscuits and Snacks segment. The carrying value was $9 as of August 2, 2015. Fair value was determined based on unobservable Level 3 inputs. Fair value was determined based on discounted cash flow analysis that include significant management assumptions such as revenue growth rates, weighted average cost of capital, and assumed royalty rates.
See also Note 6 for additional information on the impairment charges.

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In the second quarter of 2014, we recognized an impairment charge of $11 on plant assets associated with the initiative to restructure manufacturing and streamline operations for our soup and broth business in China. See also Note 8. The carrying value was reduced to estimated fair value based on expected proceeds. The carrying value was not material.
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 $74 at July 31, 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, including the current portion of long-term debt in Short-term borrowings, was $2,949 at July 31, 2016, and $2,623 at August 2, 2015. The carrying value was $2,755 at July 31, 2016, and $2,539 at 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.
17.
Shareholders' Equity
We have authorized 560 million shares of Capital stock with $.0375 par value and 40 million shares of Preferred stock, issuable in one or more classes, with or without par as may be authorized by the Board of Directors. No Preferred stock has been issued.
Share Repurchase Programs
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 also have a separate Board authorization to purchase shares to offset the impact of dilution from shares issued under our stock compensation plans.
In 2016, we repurchased 3 million shares at a cost of $143. Of this amount, $100 was used to repurchase shares pursuant to our June 2011 publicly announced share repurchase program. Approximately $450 remained available under this program as of July 31, 2016. In 2015, we repurchased 5 million shares at a cost of $244 and in 2014, we repurchased 2 million shares at a cost of $76.
18.
Stock-based Compensation
In 2003, shareholders approved the 2003 Long-Term Incentive Plan, which authorized the issuance of an aggregate of 31.2 million shares to satisfy awards of stock options, stock appreciation rights, unrestricted stock, restricted stock/units (including performance restricted stock) and performance units. In 2005, shareholders approved the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, which authorized the issuance of an additional 6 million shares to satisfy the same types of awards. In 2008, shareholders approved an amendment to the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan to increase the number of authorized shares to 10.5 million and in 2010, shareholders approved another amendment to the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan to increase the number of authorized shares to 17.5 million. In 2015, shareholders approved the 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan, which authorized the issuance of 13 million shares. Approximately 6 million of these shares were shares that were currently available under the 2005 plan and were incorporated into the 2015 Plan upon approval by shareholders.
Awards under Long-Term Incentive Plans may be granted to employees and directors. Pursuant to the Long-Term Incentive Plan, we adopted a long-term incentive compensation program which provides for grants of total shareholder return (TSR) performance restricted stock/units, EPS performance restricted stock/units, strategic performance restricted stock/units, time-lapse restricted stock/units, special performance restricted stock/units and unrestricted stock. Under the program, awards of TSR performance restricted stock/units will be earned by comparing our total shareholder return during a three-year period to the respective total shareholder returns of companies in a performance peer group. Based upon our ranking in the performance peer group, a recipient of TSR performance restricted stock/units may earn a total award ranging from 0% to 200% of the initial grant. Awards of EPS performance restricted stock/units will be earned based upon our achievement of annual earnings per share goals. During the three-year vesting period, a recipient of EPS performance restricted stock/units may earn a total award of either 0% or 100% of the initial grant. 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. A recipient of strategic performance restricted stock units may earn a total award ranging from 0% to 200% of the initial grant. Awards of time-lapse restricted stock/units will vest ratably over the three-year period. In addition, we may issue special grants of restricted stock/units to attract and retain executives which vest over various periods. Awards are generally granted annually in October.
Annual stock option grants were granted in 2016 and were not part of the long-term incentive compensation program for 2015 or 2014. Stock options are granted on a selective basis under the Long-Term Incentive Plans. The term of a stock option granted under these plans may not exceed ten years from the date of grant. Options granted in 2016 under these plans vest ratably over a three-year period. The option price may not be less than the fair market value of a share of common stock on the date of the grant.

65






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 did not issue strategic performance restricted stock units or special performance restricted units in 2016.
Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense recognized in Earnings from continuing operations was $64 for 2016, $57 for 2015 and $56 for 2014. The pre-tax stock-based compensation expense recognized in Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations was $1 for 2014. Tax-related benefits of $24 were recognized for 2016, and $21 were recognized for 2015 and 2014.
The following table summarizes stock option activity as of July 31, 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
(30
)
 
$
50.21

 
 
 
 
Outstanding at July 31, 2016
681

 
$
50.21

 
9.2

 
$
8

Exercisable at July 31, 2016

 
$

 

 
$

The total intrinsic value of options exercised during 2016, 2015 and 2014, was $2, $5 and $12, 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 July 31, 2016, total remaining unearned compensation related to nonvested stock options was $2, which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining service period of 1.8 years.
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 July 31, 2016:
 
Units
 
Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
(Restricted stock
units in thousands)
 
 
Nonvested at August 2, 2015
2,410

 
$
41.40

Granted
698

 
$
50.44

Vested
(862
)
 
$
39.50

Forfeited
(242
)
 
$
43.73

Nonvested at July 31, 2016
2,004

 
$
45.08

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 208 thousand EPS performance target grants outstanding at July 31, 2016, with a weighted-average grant-date fair value of $45.30.

66






We expense strategic performance restricted stock units on a straight-line basis over the service period. There were 336 thousand strategic performance target grants outstanding at July 31, 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 that vest will depend on actual performance achieved. We estimate expense based on the number of awards expected to vest. In the first quarter of 2017, recipients of strategic performance restricted stock units will receive a 35% payout based on actual performance achieved during a three-year period ended July 31, 2016.
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. There were 92 thousand special performance restricted stock units outstanding at July 31, 2016, with a grant-date fair value of $42.22. In the first quarter of 2017, recipients of special performance restricted stock units will receive a 0% and 100% payout, respectively, based upon financial goals and performance milestones to support innovation and growth initiatives.
As of July 31, 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 $25, which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining service period of 1.6 years. The fair value of restricted stock units vested during 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $44, $56 and $106, respectively. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of the restricted stock units granted during 2015 and 2014 was $43.00 and $39.97, respectively.
The following table summarizes TSR performance restricted stock units as of July 31, 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
(182
)
 
$
48.77

Nonvested at July 31, 2016
1,641

 
$
49.13

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
 
2014
Risk-free interest rate
0.92%
 
0.97%
 
0.60%
Expected dividend yield
2.46%
 
2.91%
 
2.98%
Expected volatility
17.25%
 
16.20%
 
15.76%
Expected term
3 years
 
3 years
 
3 years
We recognize compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the service period. As of July 31, 2016, total remaining unearned compensation related to TSR performance restricted stock units was $34, which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining service period of 1.8 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 a three-year period ended July 31, 2015. There were no TSR performance restricted stock units scheduled to vest in 2015. In the first quarter of 2014, recipients of TSR performance restricted stock units earned 0% of the initial grants based upon our TSR ranking in a performance peer group during a three-year period ended July 26, 2013. The fair value of TSR performance restricted stock units vested during 2016 was $22. The grant-date fair value of the TSR performance restricted stock units granted during 2015 and 2014 was $43.39 and $36.26, respectively. In the first quarter of 2017, recipients of TSR performance restricted stock units will receive a 75% payout based upon our TSR ranking in a performance peer group during a three-year period ended July 29, 2016.
The excess tax benefits on the exercise of stock options and vested restricted stock presented as cash flows from financing activities were $7 in 2016, $6 in 2015 and $13 in 2014. Cash received from the exercise of stock options was $2, $9 and $18 for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and are reflected in cash flows from financing activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

67






19.
Commitments and Contingencies
Regulatory and Litigation Matters
We are involved in various pending or threatened legal or regulatory proceedings, including purported class actions, arising from the conduct of business both in the ordinary course and otherwise. Modern pleading practice in the U.S. permits considerable variation in the assertion of monetary damages or other relief. Jurisdictions may permit claimants not to specify the monetary damages sought or may permit claimants to state only that the amount sought is sufficient to invoke the jurisdiction of the trial court. In addition, jurisdictions may permit plaintiffs to allege monetary damages in amounts well exceeding reasonably possible verdicts in the jurisdiction for similar matters. This variability in pleadings, together with our actual experiences in litigating or resolving through settlement numerous claims over an extended period of time, demonstrates to management that the monetary relief which may be specified in a lawsuit or claim bears little relevance to its merits or disposition value.
Due to the unpredictable nature of litigation, the outcome of a litigation matter and the amount or range of potential loss at particular points in time is normally difficult to ascertain. Uncertainties can include how fact finders will evaluate documentary evidence and the credibility and effectiveness of witness testimony, and how trial and appellate courts will apply the law in the context of the pleadings or evidence presented, whether by motion practice, or at trial or on appeal. Disposition valuations are also subject to the uncertainty of how opposing parties and their counsel will themselves view the relevant evidence and applicable law.
We establish liabilities for litigation and regulatory loss contingencies when information related to the loss contingencies shows both that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. It is possible that some matters could require us to pay damages or make other expenditures or establish accruals in amounts that could not be estimated as of July 31, 2016. While the potential future charges could be material in a particular quarter or annual period, based on information currently known by management, management does not believe any such charges are likely to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations or financial condition.
Operating Leases
We have certain operating lease commitments, primarily related to warehouse and office facilities, and certain equipment. Rent expense under operating lease commitments was $45 in 2016, $48 in 2015 and $50 in 2014. The amount in 2014 included $2 related to discontinued operations. Future minimum annual rental payments under these operating leases as of July 31, 2016, are as follows:
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
Thereafter
$38
$31
$25
$22
$16
$26
Other Contingencies
We guarantee approximately 2,000 bank loans made to Pepperidge Farm independent contractor distributors by third‑party financial institutions for the purchase of distribution routes. The maximum potential amount of future payments under existing guarantees we could be required to make is $198. Our guarantees are indirectly secured by the distribution routes. We do not believe it is probable that we will be required to make material guarantee payments as a result of defaults on the bank loans guaranteed. The amounts recognized as of July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015, were not material.
We have provided certain standard indemnifications in connection with divestitures, contracts and other transactions. Certain indemnifications have finite expiration dates. Liabilities recognized based on known exposures related to such matters were not material at July 31, 2016, and August 2, 2015.

68






20.
Supplemental Financial Statement Data
Balance Sheets
 
2016
 
2015
Accounts receivable
 
 
 
Customer accounts receivable
$
566

 
$
570

Allowances
(12
)
 
(13
)
Subtotal
$
554

 
$
557

Other
72

 
90

 
$
626

 
$
647

 
 
 
 
Inventories
 
 
 
Raw materials, containers and supplies
$
391

 
$
427

Finished products
549

 
568

 
$
940

 
$
995

 
 
 
 
Other current assets
 
 
 
Deferred taxes(1)
$

 
$
114

Fair value of derivatives
5

 
32

Other
41

 
52

 
$
46

 
$
198

 
 
 
 
Plant assets
 
 
 
Land
$
58

 
$
57

Buildings
1,488

 
1,416

Machinery and equipment
4,042

 
3,802

Projects in progress
176

 
238

Total cost
$
5,764

 
$
5,513

Accumulated depreciation(2)
(3,357
)
 
(3,166
)
 
$
2,407

 
$
2,347

 
 
 
 
Other assets
 
 
 
Fair value of derivatives
$

 
$
22

Investments
47

 
10

Deferred taxes
41

 
25

Other
19

 
31

 
$
107

 
$
88


69






 
2016
 
2015
Accrued liabilities
 
 
 
Accrued compensation and benefits
$
263

 
$
255

Fair value of derivatives
16

 
12

Accrued trade and consumer promotion programs
130

 
125

Accrued interest
35

 
35

Restructuring
57

 
54

Other
103

 
108

 
$
604

 
$
589

 
 
 
 
Other liabilities
 
 
 
Pension benefits
$
501

 
$
233

Deferred compensation(3)
100

 
104

Postretirement benefits
285

 
362

Fair value of derivatives
44

 
8

Unrecognized tax benefits
31

 
26

Restructuring
17

 
49

Other
61

 
68

 
$
1,039

 
$
850

____________________________________ 
(1) 
In November 2015, the FASB issued guidance that requires deferred tax liabilities and assets to be classified as noncurrent in the balance sheet. We adopted the guidance in 2016 on a prospective basis and modified the presentation of deferred taxes in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of July 31, 2016.
(2) 
Depreciation expense was $288 in 2016, $286 in 2015 and $287 in 2014. Buildings are depreciated over periods ranging from 7 to 45 years. Machinery and equipment are depreciated over periods generally ranging from 2 to 20 years.
(3) 
The deferred compensation obligation represents unfunded plans maintained for the purpose of providing our directors and certain of our executives the opportunity to defer a portion of their compensation. All forms of compensation contributed to the deferred compensation plans are accounted for in accordance with the underlying program. Deferrals and our contributions are credited to an investment account in the participant's name, although no funds are actually contributed to the investment account and no investments are actually purchased. Seven investment choices are available, including: (1) a book account that tracks the total return on our stock; (2) a book account that tracks the performance of the Vanguard Institutional Index; (3) a book account that tracks the performance of the Vanguard Extended Market Index; (4) a book account that tracks the performance of the Vanguard Total International Stock Index; (5) a book account that tracks the performance of the Vanguard Total Bond Market Index; (6) a book account that tracks the performance of the Vanguard Short-Term Bond Index; and (7) a book account that tracks the BlackRock Liquidity TempFund. Participants can reallocate investments daily and are entitled to the gains and losses on investment funds. We recognize an amount in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the market appreciation/depreciation of each fund.


70






Statements of Earnings
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Other expenses / (income)
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange (gains) / losses(1)
$
(2
)
 
$

 
$
6

Amortization of intangible assets
20

 
17

 
18

Impairment of intangible assets(2)
141

 
6

 

Claim settlement(3)
(25
)
 

 

Other
(3
)
 
1

 
(2
)
 
$
131

 
$
24

 
$
22

 
 
 
 
 
 
Advertising and consumer promotion expense(4)
$
397

 
$
385

 
$
411

 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
$
118

 
$
111

 
$
124

Less: Interest capitalized
3

 
3

 
2

 
$
115

 
$
108

 
$
122

____________________________________ 
(1) 
2014 included a loss of $9 on foreign exchange forward contracts used to hedge the proceeds from the sale of the European simple meals business.
(2) 
In 2016, we recognized an impairment charge of $141 related to the intangible assets of the Bolthouse Farms carrot and carrot ingredients reporting unit and in 2015 we recognized an impairment charge of $6 related to minor trademarks used in the Global Biscuits and Snacks segment. See also Note 6.
(3) 
In 2016, we recorded a gain of $25 from a settlement of a claim related to the Kelsen acquisition.
(4) 
Included in Marketing and selling expenses.
Statements of Cash Flows
 
2016
 
2015
 
2014
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
 
 
 
 
 
Other
 
 
 
 
 
Benefit related payments
$
(55
)
 
$
(53
)
 
$
(52
)
Other
(3
)
 
1

 
(1
)
 
$
(58
)
 
$
(52
)
 
$
(53
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Cash Flow Information
 
 
 
 
 
Interest paid
$
113

 
$
111

 
$
122

Interest received
$
4

 
$
3

 
$
3

Income taxes paid
$
325

 
$
333

 
$
421


71






21.
Quarterly Data (unaudited)
 
2016
 
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
Net sales
$
2,203

 
$
2,201

 
$
1,870

 
$
1,687

Gross profit
755

 
819

 
660

 
546

Net earnings (loss) attributable to Campbell Soup Company
194

 
265

 
185

 
(81
)
Per share - basic
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Campbell Soup Company
.63

 
.85

 
.60

 
(.26
)
Dividends
.312

 
.312

 
.312

 
.312

Per share - assuming dilution
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Campbell Soup Company
.62

 
.85

 
.59

 
(.26
)
Market price
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
High
$
52.37

 
$
56.63

 
$
65.48

 
$
67.89

Low
$
45.23

 
$
47.77

 
$
54.97

 
$
59.51

 
2016
 
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
In 2016, the following charges (gains) were recorded in Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impairment charge
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
127

Restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs
23

 
10

 
9

 
7

Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
80

 
(4
)
 
34

 
90

Claim settlement

 

 
(25
)
 

Per share - assuming dilution
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Impairment charge

 

 

 
.41

Restructuring charges, implementation costs and other related costs
.07

 
.03

 
.03

 
.02

Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
.26

 
(.01
)
 
.11

 
.29

Claim settlement

 

 
(.08
)
 

 
2015
 
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
Net sales
$
2,255

 
$
2,234

 
$
1,900

 
$
1,693

Gross profit
795

 
743

 
682

 
562

Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
248

 
222

 
179

 
17

Per share - basic
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
.79

 
.71

 
.58

 
.05

Dividends
.312

 
.312

 
.312

 
.312

Per share - assuming dilution
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company
.78

 
.71

 
.57

 
.05

Market price
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
High
$
45.12

 
$
47.45

 
$
48.31

 
$
49.54

Low
$
41.15

 
$
42.70

 
$
44.45

 
$
44.92


72






 
2015
 
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
In 2015, the following charges were recorded in Net earnings attributable to Campbell Soup Company:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructuring charges and implementation costs
$

 
$

 
$
11

 
$
67

Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
2

 

 
16

 
69

Per share - assuming dilution
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restructuring charges and implementation costs

 

 
.04

 
.21

Pension and postretirement benefit mark-to-market adjustments
.01

 

 
.05

 
.22

In the fourth quarter of 2016, an out-of-period adjustment of $13 ($.04 per share) to increase taxes on earnings was recorded. The adjustment related to deferred tax expense that should have been provided on certain cross-currency swap contracts associated with intercompany debt. Most of the adjustment related to the third quarter of 2016. Management does not believe the adjustment is material to the consolidated financial statements for any period.


73






Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America. 

The company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: 
pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company;
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and Directors of the company; and
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, any system of internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well defined, may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. 

The company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting as of July 31, 2016. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this assessment using those criteria, management concluded that the company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of July 31, 2016.

The effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting as of July 31, 2016 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report, which appears herein.

/s/ Denise M. Morrison
 
 
 
Denise M. Morrison
 
 
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Anthony P. DiSilvestro
 
 
 
Anthony P. DiSilvestro
 
 
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ William J. O’Shea
 
 
 
William J. O’Shea
 
 
 
Vice President and Controller
 
 
 
(Principal Accounting Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
September 22, 2016


74






Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Shareholders and Directors of Campbell Soup Company:

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index appearing under Item 15(1) present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Campbell Soup Company and its subsidiaries at July 31, 2016 and August 2, 2015, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended July 31, 2016 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index appearing under Item 15(2) presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of July 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule, and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it classifies deferred taxes in 2016 due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Update 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
 
 
 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
 
 
 
 
 
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
September 22, 2016


75






Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A. 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 Exchange Act) as of July 31, 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.
The annual report of management on our internal control over financial reporting is provided under "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" on page 74. The attestation report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, regarding our internal control over financial reporting is provided under "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" on page 75.
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 July 31, 2016.
Item 9B. Other Information
None.
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The sections entitled “Election of Directors,” “Voting Securities and Principal Shareholders — Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers” and “Voting Securities and Principal Shareholders — Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act” in our Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on November 16, 2016 (the 2016 Proxy) are incorporated herein by reference. The information presented in the section entitled “Corporate Governance Policies and Practices — Board Meetings and Committees — Board Committee Structure” in the 2016 Proxy relating to the members of our Audit Committee and the Audit Committee’s financial experts is incorporated herein by reference. 
Certain of the information required by this Item relating to our executive officers is set forth under the heading “Executive Officers of the Company.” 
We have adopted a Code of Ethics for the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers that applies to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Controller and members of the Chief Financial Officer’s financial leadership team. The Code of Ethics for the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers is posted on our website, www.campbellsoupcompany.com (under the “About Us — Corporate Governance” caption). We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirement regarding any amendment to, or a waiver of, a provision of the Code of Ethics for the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers by posting such information on our website. 
We have also adopted a separate Code of Business Conduct and Ethics applicable to the Board of Directors, our officers and all of our employees. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is posted on our website, www.campbellsoupcompany.com (under the “About Us — Corporate Governance” caption). Our Corporate Governance Standards and the charters of our four standing committees of the Board of Directors can also be found at this website. Printed copies of the foregoing are available to any shareholder requesting a copy by:
writing to Investor Relations, Campbell Soup Company, 1 Campbell Place, Camden, NJ 08103-1799;
calling 1-800-840-2865; or
e-mailing our Investor Relations Department at investorrelations@campbellsoup.com.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information presented in the sections entitled “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Executive Compensation Tables,” “Corporate Governance Policies and Practices — Compensation of Directors,” “Corporate Governance Policies and Practices — Board Meetings and Committees — Board Committee Structure — Compensation and Organization Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” and “Compensation Discussion and Analysis — Compensation and Organization Committee Report” in the 2016 Proxy is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters
The information presented in the sections entitled “Voting Securities and Principal Shareholders — Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers” and “Voting Securities and Principal Shareholders — Principal Shareholders” in the 2016 Proxy is incorporated herein by reference. 

76






Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
The following table provides information about the stock that could have been issued under our equity compensation plans as of July 31, 2016:
Plan Category
 
 
 
Number of
Securities to be
Issued Upon
Exercise of
Outstanding
Options, Warrants and Rights (a)
 
 
 
Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding
Options,
Warrants and Rights (b)
 

Number of Securities
Remaining Available
For
Future Issuance Under
Equity Compensation
Plans
(Excluding Securities
Reflected in the First Column) (c)
Equity Compensation Plans Approved by Security Holders (1)
 
4,325,971

 
$
50.21

 
12,962,646

Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved by Security Holders
 
N/A

 
N/A

 
N/A

Total
 
4,325,971

 
$
50.21

 
12,962,646

____________________________________ 
(1) 
Column (a) represents stock options and restricted stock units outstanding under the 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan, 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan and the 2003 Long-Term Incentive Plan. No additional awards can be made under the 2003 Long-Term Incentive Plan or the 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Future equity awards under the 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan may take the form of stock options, SARs, performance unit awards, restricted stock, restricted performance stock, restricted stock units, or stock awards. Column (b) represents the weighted-average exercise price of the outstanding stock options only; the outstanding restricted stock units are not included in this calculation. Column (c) represents the maximum number of future equity awards that can be made under the 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan as of July 31, 2016.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information presented in the section entitled “Corporate Governance Policies and Practices — Transactions with Related Persons,” “Election of Directors — Director Independence” and “Corporate Governance Policies and Practices — Board Meetings and Committees — Board Committee Structure” in the 2016 Proxy is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
The information presented in the section entitled “Audit Matters — Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm — Audit Firm Fees and Services” in the 2016 Proxy is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV
Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
The following documents are filed as part of this report:
1.  Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Earnings for 2016, 2015 and 2014
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for 2016, 2015 and 2014
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of July 31, 2016 and August 2, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for 2016, 2015 and 2014
Consolidated Statements of Equity for 2016, 2015 and 2014
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
2.  Financial Statement Schedule
II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts for 2016, 2015 and 2014

77






3.  Exhibits 
3(i)
Campbell’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended through February 24, 1997, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(i) to Campbell’s Form 10-K (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal year ended July 28, 2002.
 
 
3(ii)
Campbell’s By-Laws, effective April 1, 2016, are incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 to Campbell's Form 8-K (SEC file number 1-3822) filed with the SEC on March 24, 2016.
 
 
4(a)

Indenture, dated November 24, 2008, between Campbell and The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to Campbell’s Registration Statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-155626) filed with the SEC on November 24, 2008.
 
 
4(b)
Form of First Supplemental Indenture, dated August 2, 2012, among Campbell, The Bank of New York Mellon and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Series Trustee, to Indenture dated November 24, 2008, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Campbell's Form 8-K (File No. 1-3822) filed with the SEC on August 2, 2012.
 
 
4(c)
Form of 3.050% Notes due 2017 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Campbell's Form 8-K (File No. 1-3822) filed with the SEC on July 1, 2010.
 
 
4(d)
Form of 4.500% Notes due 2019 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Campbell's Form 8-K (File No. 1-3822) filed with the SEC on January 20, 2009.
 
 
4(e)
Form of 4.250% Notes due 2021 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Campbell's Form 8-K (File No. 1-3822) filed with the SEC on April 1, 2011.
 
 
4(f)
Form of 2.500% Notes due 2022 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Campbell's Form 8-K (File No. 1-3822) filed with the SEC on August 2, 2012.
 
 
4(g)
Form of 3.800% Notes due 2042 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Campbell's Form 8-K (File No. 1-3822) filed with the SEC on August 2, 2012.
 
 
9(a)
Major Stockholders’ Voting Trust Agreement dated June 2, 1990, as amended, is incorporated by reference to (i) Exhibit 99.C to Campbell’s Schedule 13E-4 (SEC file number 5-7735) filed on September 12, 1996, (ii) Exhibit 99.G to Amendment No. 7 to Schedule 13D (SEC file number 5-7735) dated March 3, 2000, (iii) Exhibit 99.M to Amendment No. 8 to Schedule 13D (SEC file number 5-7735) dated January 26, 2001, (iv) Exhibit 99.P to Amendment No. 9 to Schedule 13D (SEC file number 5-7735) dated September 30, 2002, and (v) Exhibits 9(b), 9(c), 9(d) and 9(e) to Campbell's Form 10-K (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal year ended August 3, 2014, each as filed with the SEC.
 
 
10(a)+
Campbell Soup Company 2003 Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated on September 25, 2008, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(b) to Campbell’s Form 10-K (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal year ended August 3, 2008.
 
 
10(b)+
Campbell Soup Company 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated on November 18, 2010, is incorporated by reference to Campbell’s 2010 Proxy Statement (SEC file number 1-3822) filed with the SEC on October 7, 2010.
 
 
10(c)+
Campbell Soup Company 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Campbell’s 2015 Proxy Statement (SEC file number 1-3822) filed with the SEC on October 9, 2015.
 
 
10(d)+
Campbell Soup Company Annual Incentive Plan, as amended on November 19, 2014, is incorporated by reference to Campbell’s 2014 Proxy Statement (SEC file number 1-3822) filed with the SEC on October 1, 2014.
 
 
10(e)+

Campbell Soup Company Mid-Career Hire Pension Plan, as amended and restated effective as of January 1, 2009, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended February 1, 2009.
 
 
10(f)+
First Amendment to the Campbell Soup Company Mid-Career Hire Pension Plan, effective as of December 31, 2010, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended January 30, 2011.
 
 
10(g)+
Deferred Compensation Plan, effective November 18, 1999, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(e) to Campbell’s Form 10-K (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal year ended July 30, 2000.
 
 
10(h)+

Campbell Soup Company Supplemental Retirement Plan (formerly known as Deferred Compensation Plan II), as amended and restated effective as of January 1, 2011, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(h) to Campbell’s Form 10-K (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2011.
 
 

78






10(i)+

Severance Protection Agreement dated January 8, 2001, with Douglas R. Conant is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended January 28, 2001. Agreements with the existing executive officers listed under the heading “Executive Officers of the Company” (other than Carlos Barroso, Adam G. Ciongoli, Jeffrey T. Dunn and Luca Mignini) are in all material respects the same as Mr. Conant’s agreement.
 
 
10(j)+

Amendment to the Severance Protection Agreement dated February 26, 2008, with Douglas R. Conant is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(b) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended November 2, 2008. Amendments with the existing executive officers listed under the heading “Executive Officers of the Company” (other than Carlos Barroso, Adam G. Ciongoli, Jeffrey T. Dunn and Luca Mignini) are in all material respects the same as Mr. Conant’s agreement.
 
 
10(k)+
Form of U.S. Severance Protection Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(c) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended November 2, 2008.
 
 
10(l)+
Form of Non-U.S. Severance Protection Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(d) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended November 2, 2008.
 
 
10(m)+
Form of U.S. Severance Protection Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(m) to Campbell’s Form 10-K (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2011.
 
 
10(n)+
Form of Non-U.S. Severance Protection Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(n) to Campbell’s Form 10-K (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2011.
 
 
10(o)+
Form of Amendment to U.S. and Non-U.S. Severance Protection Agreements filed herewith.
 
 
10(p)+
Campbell Soup Company Severance Pay Plan for Salaried Employees, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2011, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended May 1, 2011.
 
 
10(q)+
Amendment to the Campbell Soup Company Severance Pay Plan for Salaried Employees, effective as of May 1, 2015, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(b) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended May 3, 2015.
 
 
10(r)+
Amendment to the Campbell Soup Company Severance Pay Plan for Salaried Employees, dated December 17, 2015, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2016.
 
 
10(s)+
Campbell Soup Company Supplemental Employees’ Retirement Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2009, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(c) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended February 1, 2009.
 
 
10(t)+
First Amendment to the Campbell Soup Company Supplemental Employees’ Retirement Plan, effective as of December 31, 2010, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(c) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended January 30, 2011.
 
 
10(u)*+
Letter Agreement, dated July 22, 2014, between Campbell and Jeffrey T. Dunn is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(a) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended February 1, 2015.
 
 
10(v)+

2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Time-Lapsed Restricted Stock Unit Agreement, dated as of August 1, 2014, between Campbell and Jeffrey T. Dunn, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(b) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended February 1, 2015.
 
 
10(w)*+

2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance Restricted Stock Unit Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2014, between Campbell and Jeffrey T. Dunn is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(c) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended February 1, 2015.
 
 
10(x)*+

2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance Restricted Stock Unit Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2014, between Campbell and Jeffrey T. Dunn is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(d) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended February 1, 2015.
 
 
10(y)*+

Letter Agreement, dated February 15, 2016, between Campbell and Jeffrey T. Dunn is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Campbell's Form 8-K (SEC file number 1-3822) filed with the SEC on February 19, 2016.
 
 
10(z)+
Wm. Bolthouse Farms, Inc. Salaried & Hourly Administrative Performance-Based Incentive Plan is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(e) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended February 1, 2015.
 
 

79






10(aa)+
Wm. Bolthouse Farms, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, effective as of August 1, 2010, is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(f) to Campbell’s Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended February 1, 2015.
 
 
10(bb)+
Form of 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Time-Lapsed Restricted Stock Unit Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Campbell's Form 8-K (SEC file number 1-3822) filed with the SEC on February 2, 2015.
 
 
10(cc)+
Form of 2005 Long-Term Incentive Plan Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10 to Campbell's Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) for the fiscal quarter ended November 1, 2015.
 
 
10(dd)+
Form of 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan Nonqualified Stock Option Agreement filed herewith.
 
 
10(ee)+
Form of 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance Stock Unit Agreement (Earnings Per Share) filed herewith.
 
 
10(ff)+

Form of 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan Performance Stock Unit Agreement (Total Shareholder Return) filed herewith.
 
 
10(gg)+
Form of 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan Time-Lapse Restricted Stock Unit Agreement filed herewith.
 
 
18
Preferability letter regarding change in accounting principle is incorporated by reference to Campbell's Form 10-Q (SEC file number 1-3822) filed with the SEC for the fiscal quarter ended November 1, 2015.
 
 
21
Subsidiary List.
 
 
23
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
 
 
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
*Portions of this document have been omitted and filed separately with the Commission pursuant to a confidential treatment request under 17 C.F.R. 240.24b-2.
+This exhibit is a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

We will furnish to the SEC, upon request, a copy of any of our long-term debt agreements not otherwise filed with the SEC.

80






SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, Campbell has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
September 22, 2016
 
 
 
CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Anthony P. DiSilvestro
 
 
 
Anthony P. DiSilvestro
 
 
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of Campbell and in the capacities indicated on September 22, 2016.
        
Signatures
 
 
 
/s/ Denise M. Morrison
 
/s/ Mary Alice D. Malone
Denise M. Morrison
 
Mary Alice D. Malone
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
 
Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Anthony P. DiSilvestro
 
/s/ Sara Mathew
Anthony P. DiSilvestro
 
Sara Mathew
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
Director
(Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ William J. O’Shea
 
/s/ Keith R. McLoughlin
William J. O’Shea
 
Keith R. McLoughlin
Vice President and Controller
 
Director
(Principal Accounting Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Les C. Vinney
 
/s/ Charles R. Perrin
Les C. Vinney
 
Charles R. Perrin
Chairman and Director
 
Director
 
 
 
/s/ Bennett Dorrance
 
/s/ Nick Shreiber
Bennett Dorrance
 
Nick Shreiber
Director
 
Director
 
 
 
/s/ Randall W. Larrimore
 
/s/ Tracey T. Travis
Randall W. Larrimore
 
Tracey T. Travis
Director
 
Director
 
 
 
/s/ Marc B. Lautenbach
 
/s/ Archbold D. van Beuren 
Marc B. Lautenbach
 
Archbold D. van Beuren 
Director
 
Director



81






Schedule II

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

For the Fiscal Years ended July 31, 2016, August 2, 2015 and August 3, 2014
(Millions)

 
Balance at Beginning of Period
 
Charged to/
(Reduction in) Costs
and
Expenses
 
Deductions
 
Acquisitions
 


Balance at
End of
Period
Fiscal year ended July 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash discount
$
5

 
$
116

 
$
(117
)
 
$

 
$
4

Bad debt reserve
4

 
(1
)
 

 

 
3

Returns reserve(1)
4

 
2

 
(1
)
 

 
5

Total Accounts receivable allowances
$
13

 
$
117

 
$
(118
)
 
$

 
$
12

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fiscal year ended August 2, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash discount
$
4

 
$
116

 
$
(115
)
 
$

 
$
5

Bad debt reserve
3

 
2

 
(1
)
 

 
4

Returns reserve(1)
5

 

 
(1
)
 

 
4

Total Accounts receivable allowances
$
12

 
$
118

 
$
(117
)
 
$

 
$
13

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fiscal year ended August 3, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash discount
$
5

 
$
114

 
$
(115
)
 
$

 
$
4

Bad debt reserve
2

 

 
(1
)
 
2

 
3

Returns reserve(1)
4

 
1

 

 

 
5

Total Accounts receivable allowances
$
11

 
$
115

 
$
(116
)
 
$
2

 
$
12

_______________________________________
(1) 
The returns reserve is evaluated quarterly and adjusted accordingly. During each period, returns are charged to net sales in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings as incurred. Actual returns were approximately $95 in 2016, $105 in 2015 and $118 in 2014, or less than 2% of net sales.

82