French food group Danone is reported to be in talks that could result in the sale of its Jacob’s biscuits unit.


UK-based United Biscuits and private equity firm Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst are thought to be among the potential buyers, reported the Financial Times. The business, which operates in Ireland and the UK, is believed to be worth more than £200m (US$374m).


According to one analyst, a sale would be positive for Danone shareholders.


“Jacob’s has little business strength, breadth and depth and operates in a weak market environment where there is little prospect for growth and where private label is dominant,” Andrew Wood, from Sanford C Bernstein, was quoted by the newspaper as saying.