SPARTECH <SPTN> REVERSE STOCK SPLIT APPROVED Spartech Corp said shareholders at the annual meeting approved a reverse stock split of the common stock, on a one-for-five basis. The company said the split was necessary in preparation for an offering of 25 mln dlrs in convertible subordinated debentures, expected to be made soon through Kidder, Peabody and Co. It said the new common stock will begin trading April 8 under the symbol "SPTNd." Separately, Spartech said its board appointed Bradley Buechler as president, filling a vacancy. It said Lawrence Powers remains as chairman. Buechler, prior to his promotion, was executive vice president and chief operating officer. He will retain his duties as chief operating officer.