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A senior executive at Campbell Soup Company has been placed on leave after a lawsuit filed by two former employees accused him of making disparaging and classist remarks about the company's customers and spewing racist and sexist comments about colleagues. The lawsuit, filed in a New Jersey court, centers on Martin Bally, the Vice President of eCommerce and Omni-Channel, and includes allegations supported by secret audio recordings.
The complaint, brought forth by former employees Sarah P. and Olivia G., claims Bally described Campbell's iconic soup as "s--- for poor people." According to the legal filing, the recordings capture Bally making numerous offensive statements, including using racial slurs against Indian employees, questioning their work ethic, and mocking a blind colleague. These derogatory comments about customers and colleagues have cast a shadow over the Camden, N.J.-based food giant, known for its family-friendly image.
The plaintiffs allege they faced retaliation after raising concerns about Bally's conduct, which they claim created a toxic work environment. Sarah P., a former senior manager who claims to have made the recordings, was reportedly fired, an act she alleges was in retribution for her complaints. The lawsuit details a pattern of behavior that stands in stark contrast to the company's stated values. A lawsuit alleges a toxic work environment and raises serious questions about corporate oversight.
In response to the controversy, Campbell Soup Company has acknowledged the severity of the allegations. The company issued a statement confirming it is conducting a thorough investigation and has placed the executive on a leave of absence pending its outcome. "We are taking these allegations very seriously," a company spokesperson said, reinforcing Campbell's commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace for all employees. The company has not commented further on the specific details of the pending litigation.
