Coca-Cola May Bid to Swallow Up Snapple

Coca-Cola is talking to private-equity firms about purchasing Cadbury Schweppes PLC's Snapple and Mott's brands, the Wall Street Journal reports. Coke is trying to expand its presence in the fast-growing market for noncarbonated drinks--namely juices, waters and ready-to-drink teas, like Snapple. Mott's includes apple juice and sauces, as well as other items.

Cadbury is splitting off its drinks division from its confectionary business. But it doesn't want to separate its noncarbonated beverages from its soft drink brands, which include Dr Pepper and 7UP. That decision seemingly blocks Coke from approaching the company directly due to competition rules. But Cadbury may be willing to reconsider, for the right price, Forbes.com reports. (More Coca-Cola stories.)