Pa. judge: Baking exec who knows secrets behind ‘nooks and crannies’ can’t work for rival
By APThursday, February 18, 2010
VP who knows baker’s secrets can’t work for rival
PHILADELPHIA — A judge in Philadelphia says an executive who knows the secrets behind the “nooks and crannies” of Thomas’ English muffins can’t start a job with rival baker Hostess.
Bimbo Bakeries USA, the maker of Thomas’ English muffins, says former vice president Chris Botticella accessed sensitive trade secrets on his last day. U.S. District Judge R. Barclay Surrick agreed with Bimbo that Botticella did not credibly explain why.
Court files describe Botticella as one of just seven people worldwide who know the various secrets that produce the muffins’ famed “nooks and crannies.” The ruling earlier this month says Botticella kept working for Bimbo for months after accepting the Hostess job offer.
Botticella is barred from working at Hostess while the lawsuit plays out.
