Posted on Wed, Jul. 1, 2009
A Campbell Soup Co. employee in Texas has filed a discrimination lawsuit against the food company in federal court in Camden that seeks class-action status.
Chester Hicks, 58, claims that Campbell discriminated against him because he is African American and over 40. The soup giant has failed to promote him out of an entry-level sales job, despite good performance reviews, since he was hired in 1985, according to the lawsuit.
Hicks is based in Houston and still works for Campbell. He is the only person listed in the lawsuit, which was filed Friday.
The federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission investigated Hicks' claims and issued him a right-to-sue letter in April, the lawsuit states.
Campbell said it would defend itself.
"We are confident that the allegations of discrimination are without merit and intend to defend the case vigorously," company spokesman Anthony Sanzio said today.
Contact staff writer Bob Fernandez at 215-854-5897 or bob.fernandez@phillynews.com.
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