UK: Lion Capital silent on Nidan stake sale

UK-based private equity firm Lion Capital has declined to comment on reports the firm is seeking to sell its 75% stake in Russian juice producer Nidan Juices.

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Lion, the company behind both the Wagamama restaurant chain, Weetabix, and Orangina, acquired the juice producer in a private transaction in August 2007.

Nidan Juices is one of the three largest juice producers in Russia. The company produces juices under the Caprice, Moya Semya, Sokos, and Champion brand names.

However, the firm is now looking to offload its stake, Kommersant business daily reported today (21 January).

It is understood the company has already carried out due diligence of Nidan Juices and has sent offers on selling the stake to soft drink giant The Coca-Cola Co, Russian fruit juice manufacturer Wimm-Bill-Dann, and Russian brewing company Baltika.

Lion Capital and The Coca-Cola Co declined to comment on the reports.

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