What is the main purpose of this 8-K filing?

The primary purpose of this 8-K filing is to publicly announce a significant executive leadership change at PepsiCo, Inc., specifically the appointment of Maura Abeln Smith as the new Executive Vice President of Government Affairs, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary.

Who is replacing Larry D. Thompson?

Maura Abeln Smith, aged 55, is succeeding Larry D. Thompson, who is retiring from the company. Ms. Smith will assume her new role on May 5, 2011.

What is the significance of this filing being under Regulation FD?

Filing under Regulation FD means the information is being disclosed to the public to prevent selective disclosure. Importantly, information furnished under Item 7.01 is generally not considered 'filed' for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which typically provides liability for false or misleading statements in filed documents. This means PepsiCo is providing the information but not subject to the same level of legal scrutiny as if it were a formally 'filed' document under other sections.

Does this filing contain any financial performance updates for PepsiCo?

No, this specific 8-K filing does not contain any financial performance updates. Its sole purpose is to report the executive appointment and related succession.

PEP 8-K: Regulation FD — Mar 25, 2011

Summary

PepsiCo, Inc. (PEP) filed an 8-K on March 25, 2011, primarily to announce a key executive appointment. The report details the appointment of Maura Abeln Smith as executive vice president of government affairs, general counsel, and corporate secretary, effective May 5, 2011. This appointment follows the retirement of Larry D. Thompson from these roles. Investors should note that this 8-K is furnished under Regulation FD and is not considered filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act, meaning it does not carry the same liability implications for omissions or misstatements. The core information for investors revolves around leadership changes within critical corporate functions.

Key Highlights

1Announcement of Maura Abeln Smith's appointment to EVP of Government Affairs, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary.
2Effective date of the new appointment: May 5, 2011.
3Succession plan in place for the retirement of Larry D. Thompson.
4The filing is made under Item 7.01 (Regulation FD Disclosure).
5Information is furnished and not deemed 'filed' under Section 18 of the Exchange Act.
6The report includes a press release dated March 25, 2011, as Exhibit 99.1.

PEPSICO INC 8-K Report, Regulation FD Disclosure (Mar 25, 2011)

Summary

Key Highlights

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