What is the history of Sara Lee Corp.?

Sara Lee Corporation, founded in 1939, is a global consumer goods company with a rich history. It originally began as a small wholesale distributor of meat in Chicago and quickly expanded into bakery and other food products. In the 1950s, Sara Lee introduced its iconic cheesecakes, which became synonymous with the brand. Over the years, the company diversified its product portfolio through acquisitions, include Hanes, Playtex, and Champion. In 2000, Sara Lee sold off its meat business to focus on its core food and beverage operations. Further restructuring in 2012 led to the company's separation into two entities: Hillshire Brands for proteins and Sara Lee for other products. Finally, in 2019, Sara Lee Corporation, excluding its North American foodservice business, was acquired by Tyson Foods. Today, Sara Lee continues to stand as a trusted name in the global consumer goods industry.