Nov 22, 2006 10:27 AM, from staff and wire reports

PepsiCo has agreed to acquire Azusa CA-based Naked Juice Co from North Castle Partners, a private equity firm. Terms of the agreement, which is subject to government approval, were not disclosed.

The acquisition signals PepsiCo’s continued portfolio transformation to areas that address consumer health and wellness. Such brands and products have been growing at two-and-a-half times the rate of the rest of the portfolio.

With sales of more than $150 million, Naked Juice’s products include more than 25 all-natural, 100 percent chilled juices and juice smoothies made from unprocessed fruits, with no added sugars or preservatives. Naked Juice is sold in supermarkets, club stores, health food stores, and other specialty stores nationwide.

PepsiCo will continue Naked Juice's marketing and innovation approach, while broadening its reach. Naked Juice will continue to operate in California.