Berkshire Hathaway Names Johnson President of Consumer Products, Service, Retailing Businesses

By Colin Kellaher

Berkshire Hathaway has named Adam Johnson president of its consumer products, service and retailing businesses as Greg Abel prepares to take the helm of the sprawling conglomerate from legendary investor Warren Buffett.

Berkshire on Monday said Johnson, who has spent the past decade as chief executive of its NetJets unit, will also remain at the helm of the private-jet company.

The 95-year-old Buffett in May unveiled plans to step down as Berkshire's chief executive at the end of the year and hand the reins to Abel, his handpicked successor who currently serves as vice chairman of the Omaha, Neb., company's non-insurance operations.

Berkshire's consumer products, service and retailing businesses include such household names as Dairy Queen, Fruit of the Loom, See's candy, Duracell batteries and paint maker Benjamin Moore.

Berkshire said its remaining non-insurance businesses, including industrial products, building products, railroad BNSF and Berkshire Hathaway Energy, will remain under Abel's direct oversight after he becomes president and CEO on Jan. 1.

Write to Colin Kellaher at [e-mail]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

12-08-25 0739ET