DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. – After reports that Sara Lee Corp. plans a major image upgrade of its meat brands after the company separates its North American retail unit from its international coffee business in 2012, an official opted to not comment on speculation that the company intends to revitalize its Hillshire Farm brand and launch two premium deli brands.

Sara Lee spokesman Mike Cummins told MEATPOULTRY.com: “I can tell you that we do not comment on rumor or speculation in the marketplace. As we prepare for our split into two separate, publicly traded companies, we are looking at many different ideas, concepts, etc. Many of these will never move beyond the concept stage. I can also tell you that we will unveil everything at our investor day meeting in the spring.”