Coca-Cola gets more fizz with Fuze infusion

NEW YORK: US drinks giant Coca-Cola Co. said on Thursday it was buying energy drinks maker Fuze to add a funky line of teas and juices to its range of best-selling beverages.   

The companies did not disclose the financial terms but said the deal, which is expected to close in this quarter, would see Fuze operate as a stand-alone unit of the Coca-Cola empire.   

Fuze started selling its colorfully packaged drinks in 2001 and now numbers the Vitalize, Refresh, Tea and Slenderize lines among its brands, which are sold in Europe and Asia as well as North America.   

The drinks will be a "strong complement" to Coca-Cola's range, Sandy Douglas, president of Coca-Cola North America, said in a statement.   

"This is yet another example of how we are expanding our portfolio to meet the growing consumer demand for beverage variety and functionality through innovation, business partnerships and acquisitions," he said.   

The world's biggest beverages company has been diversifying its offerings, with a particular focus on fast-growing health and power drinks.