Unilever eyes GSK's consumer goods arm in possible $68-bn deal

Unilever confirms interest in GSK assets, says GSK consumer business would be 'strong strategic fit'; UK's Sunday Times says 50 billion-pound bid rejected in late 2021

Consumer goods giant Unilever said it had approached Glaxosmithkline about buying the pharmaceutical group's consumer goods arm, after a newspaper reported that a 50 billion-pound ($68.4 billion) bid it made had been rebuffed.

Unilever, which has been under fire from some investors for the group's underperforming share price, confirmed the approach about a potential acquisition of the business in a statement on Saturday.

"GSK Consumer Healthcare is a leader in the attractive consumer health space and would be a strong strategic fit as Unilever continues to re-shape its portfolio," it said.

"There can be no certainty that any agreement will be reached."

GSK declined