KKR Nears Buyout of Chinese Beverage Maker Dayao

Dayao soft drinks.

Source: CFOTO/Future Publishing/Getty Images

KKR & Co. is close to acquiring an 85% stake in Chinese soda maker Dayao, according to people familiar with the situation.

Dayao’s founders are likely to retain a minority stake, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing a private matter. An agreement has yet to be finalized, the people said.