In making the announcement, Lenny said, "Bill's sound leadership and total commitment to Hershey's mission and philosophy were clearly evident from the day that I joined the company. He contributed significantly to Hershey's strategic direction that we're now embarking upon and, for that, I'm extremely grateful."

Kenneth L. Wolfe, Chairman of the Board, Hershey Foods Corporation, said, "Congratulations to Bill on a marvelous career at Hershey Foods. Over many years and in a number of executive management positions, Bill has been both a significant contributor to the success of this company as well as a good friend. We wish Bill and his wife, Carol, the very best."

Christ joined Hershey Foods as a Systems Analyst in 1969. During his 32-year career with Hershey, he held several financial positions prior to being named Vice President, Finance and Administration, Hershey International Ltd., in 1979. Christ was named Vice President and General Manager, Latin American and European Operations in 1984, Vice President, Finance Administration, Hershey Chocolate U.S.A. in 1985, and President, Hershey International in 1988. He was promoted to the position of Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 1994 and, in 1997, assumed the additional position of Corporate Treasurer. He was elected Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in 2000 and was named Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer in 2001, with responsibility for the company's global supply chain as well as for its businesses outside the U.S., including Canada, Mexico and Hershey International.

Prior to joining Hershey Foods, Christ was a Systems Analyst for the Department of the U.S. Navy and served as a captain in the United States Air Force. A native of Johnstown, Pa., Christ received a bachelor's degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a master's degree from The Pennsylvania State University. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Chocolate Manufacturers Association and is a former member of the New York Advisory Board of Allendale Mutual Insurance Company and of the Financial Executives Institute.

SOURCE Hershey Foods Corporation

CONTACT: Christine Dugan of Hershey Foods, +1-717-534-7631 URL: http://www.hersheys.com