Geralyn R. Breig, Former Avon and Godiva Exec, Appointed to Welch’s Board of Directors

New Director Brings Profit Growth Expertise to the Family-Farmer Owned Cooperative

CONCORD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Welch’s, a family-farmer owned cooperative and the leading marketer of Concord and Niagara grape-based products, announces the appointment of Geralyn R. Breig to its Board of Directors. As one of five external directors, Breig will use her extensive consumer products industry expertise, as well as her experience driving business growth, to guide Welch’s short- and long-term goals.

“We’re looking forward to gaining Geralyn’s perspective on driving further results for our family-farmer owners.”

“Geralyn has a proven record for growing businesses and delivering financial results,” said Joseph Falcone, Chairman of the Welch’s Board, and President of National Grape Cooperative Inc. “We’re looking forward to gaining Geralyn’s perspective on driving further results for our family-farmer owners.”

A seasoned executive with 29 years of consumer products industry experience, Breig is currently a board director with 1-800-Flowers.com. She previously served as President of Avon North America & General Manager Avon USA, the cosmetics, apparel and gift retailer. Breig led Avon’s North American business recovery strategy, including increasing profit and significantly reducing costs. Before Avon, Breig spent 10 years with the Campbell Soup Company’s Godiva and Pepperidge Farm brands. As Godiva President, she transformed the brand by creating a new retail concept and global store design. While a Pepperidge Farm Vice President, she developed a strategic plan that doubled profits and grew revenue. Prior to that, she spent several years with Kraft and Procter & Gamble.

“Welch’s is renowned as a trusted, family-oriented brand,” says Breig. “I’m looking forward to working in the consumer manufacturing arena again, and helping the Board drive growth for this iconic brand.”

Breig received her B.S. in Economics from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.

About Welch’s

Headquartered in Concord, Massachusetts, Welch’s is the processing and marketing subsidiary of National Grape Cooperative. Welch’s is owned by this cooperative of more than 1,000 family farmers across America and in Ontario, Canada, who grow the delicious and inherently healthy Concord grape used in Welch’s juices and other grape-based products. Welch’s is committed to research and development that will meet the growing demand for products addressing consumers’ health and nutrition needs. Welch’s products are sold throughout the United States and in approximately 50 countries globally. Welch’s is an Equal Opportunity Employer- Minorities/Female/Disabled/Veterans. For more information, visit welchs.com.