ATLANTA -- The Coca-Cola Co. here has acquired Energy Brands, known as Glaceau, and its enhanced-water brands, including Vitaminwater for $4.1 billion in cash. Coca-Cola said the acquisition will expand its ability to meet consumers' needs across the spectrum of sparkling and still beverages. Vitaminwater, Smartwater, Fruitwater and Vitaminenergy brands gave Glaceau a unique position in key market categories and are expected to make up a large portion of the beverage industry's volume and gross profit growth in the U.S. through 2010, according to the companies. "Glaceau has built a great business with high-quality growth, as well as a strong pipeline of innovative products and brands," said Neville Isdell, chairman and chief executive officer of Coca-Cola, in a statement. "We envision even faster growth for Glaceau as part of Coca-Cola's enhanced range of brands for North American consumers. We will manage this opportunity in a way that delivers attractive returns for our shareowners and also appropriately benefits our system."
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