Sara Lee chief chews over acquisitions

ATLANTA: Sara Lee Corp, the maker of Ball Park hot dogs and Senseo brew pods, may consider acquisitions to fuel growth in its food and coffee divisions, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brenda Barnes said.

Sara Lee, which plans to cut at least $250 million in costs over two years, is in a position to handle a large purchase, Barnes, 55, said in an interview in New York. The company has simplified its technology systems, gotten out of underperforming businesses, and introduced better products based on consumer research during the past four years, she said.

"We now have the capability to do this," said Barnes, without specifying the amount Sara Lee would be willing to spend. "Early on, we didn't earn the right to buy."