For most kids in the U.S., especially for those who grew up with busy parents or parents who lacked culinary abilities, processed foods unknowingly became a staple in their childhood that followed them into adulthood.
However, some may not know that most of their favorite childhood foods were made by a single company whose products can be found at every grocery store nationwide.
General Mills is an American food company and one of the largest manufacturers and sellers of processed foods worldwide.
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Although most may recognize this company for its iconic cereals, including Cheerios, Lucky Charms, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, it owns over 100 well-known brands in all food categories, such as cereal, snacks, yogurt, pizza, and soup, to name a few.
Person walking in the food isle at a grocery store.
General Mills struggles to deliver consistent growth and leans toward innovation
General Mills GIS is not afraid to try new things or develop innovative products, which is why it has become such a successful company.
Although this manufacturing giant is still very profitable, its heyday may be ending since its business has not grown at the speed it once did, a concern many food companies have shared over the last few years.
For the full year of 2024, General Mills’ total net sales declined by 1% compared to last year, its North American retail sales were down by 1%, and its overall operational profit decreased by 2%.
To survive these tumultuous times and accelerate sales growth, General Mills increased investments in product innovation, brand building, promotional support, and value-saving tactics.
“Stepping up our investment is impacting our profit outlook for the back half of the year; I am very confident that it’s the right choice to position us for stronger growth in fiscal ’26 and beyond,” said General Mills CEO Jeffrey L. Harmening.
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General Mills recently announced it is closing G-Works, the company’s innovation unit, and halting all new investments by 301 Inc., its venture capital arm, which works hand-in-hand to invest in emerging brands that promote innovation in the food industry.
However, this shocking move doesn’t mean the end of innovation at the company since General Mills made this move to pursue new growth initiatives within its existing brands.
General Mills launches its first-ever ramen noodle line with two unexpected brands
On Mar. 11, General Mills unveiled its first-ever ramen noodle line. However, this new product is being led by two very unexpected brands owned by the company.
The manufacturing giant is launching instant ramen noodles with Old El Paso, a Tex-Mex food brand, and Totino’s, the popular pizza roll brand.
Although an odd pairing, this savvy business move was made to boost exposure for the two beloved brands and differentiate this new product from those of its competitors.
“We know our fans are constantly looking for exciting new ways to enjoy their favorite flavors,” said General Mills VP, Business Unit Director Maria Carolina Comings.
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These new ramen noodles come in two Old El Paso flavors, Fajita and Beef Birria, and two Totino flavors, Cheese Pizza and Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza.
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The Old El Paso and Tonino’s ramen noodles will be available at all Walmart locations nationwide and on the company’s website beginning in April of this year.
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