Danone, Coke In Fruit Juice Venture

The venture, named Minute Maid Danone, will be based in France and focus initially on European and Latin American markets, the companies said in a joint statement.

The venture brings together the brand strength of the two industry heavyweights.

Coca-Cola Foods, a division of Atlanta-based Coca-Cola Co, is the world leader in fruit juices and drinks. Danone, best known for its yoghurts and dairy products, is the biggest French food company and ranks seventh worldwide.

The companies said the chilled juice products, labelled Minute Maid