November 2/Irving, Texas/Business Wire -- Interstate Bakeries Corporation (IBC) announced that it is changing its name to Hostess Brands Inc. The new name was selected following extensive market research and leverages an "iconic brand that Americans have enjoyed for almost 100 years," noted the company.

"Hostess has been an important part of Americana for generations and is synonymous with quality and great-tasting treats. It is a name that consumers, customers and our employees recognize and hold in high regard," said Craig Jung, Hostess Brands chief executive officer.

"While we considered many potential names -- one stood out -- Hostess Brands. Hostess is well-recognized, trusted and the company's best-selling brand, with more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. Changing our name to Hostess Brands is another important step toward a bright future for our company," said Jung.

Hostess Brands will continue to bake and deliver products such as Hostess Cupcakes, Hostess Twinkies, Wonder bread and Home Pride, each enjoyed in millions of American households.

From the November 9, 2009, Prepared Foods E-dition