Berkshire Plans to Sell 27.5% of Kraft Heinz Stake, Filing Reveals

• Berkshire wrote down its Kraft Heinz investment by $3.76 billion in August, adding to a prior $3 billion writedown in 2019
• Kraft Heinz announced plans to split into two separate companies in September, a decision that Buffett and Greg Abel (now Berkshire's CEO) opposed
• The divestment comes as Kraft Heinz installed new CEO Steve Cahillane on January 1, the same day Abel became Berkshire's chief executive

Summary: Berkshire Hathaway to Exit Kraft Heinz Investment

Key Development: Berkshire Hathaway plans to sell its entire 27.5% stake in Kraft Heinz, comprising 325.4 million shares, according to an SEC filing from January 20. This marks Warren Buffett's exit from a troubled investment spanning more than a decade.

Financial Impact: Berkshire has already written down its Kraft Heinz investment twice—$3.76 billion in August and $3 billion in 2019—reflecting significant losses on the position. Berkshire remains the largest shareholder in Kraft Heinz.

Company Background: Kraft Heinz, maker of Heinz ketchup and Oscar Mayer meats, has struggled following years of cost-cutting and underinvestment. The company announced plans to split in September, a decision both Buffett and current Berkshire CEO Greg Abel opposed. The food giant faces intense competition from healthier alternatives and private-label brands while dealing with weakened consumer spending after years of price increases.

Leadership Changes: Steve Cahillane became Kraft Heinz's new CEO on January 1, 2026—the same day Greg Abel assumed Berkshire's CEO role. Cahillane previously led the former Kellogg company, which also underwent a split before being acquired.

Market Context: Kraft Heinz is among several companies in the struggling U.S. food sector experiencing slowing sales as consumers reduce spending. The company, with offices in Chicago and Pittsburgh, stated its focus remains on "maximizing long-term value for all stakeholders."

Status: Neither Berkshire Hathaway nor Kraft Heinz provided immediate comment on the planned divestiture.