Sara Lee to eliminate 390 jobs in Europe that became redundant with sales of business units

Sara Lee to cut 390 jobs in Europe

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. — Sara Lee Corp. is cutting 390 jobs in Europe over the next few years following the sale of its household and body care businesses, the company said Tuesday.

The company has sold its Ambi Pure air freshener business to Procter & Gamble Co. and its stake in a joint venture in India that makes insecticides. It also has agreed to sell its body care business to Unilever NV and its remaining insecticide business to SC Johnson.

Sara Lee has trimmed its ancillary business units recently to focus on its core food and beverage business.

Sara Lee said the positions had become redundant and anticipates saving approximately $39 million as a result of the job cuts. Company leaders said they officially informed its employees and the European Works Council about the plans on Tuesday.

Shares of Sara Lee fell 22 cents to $13.88.