The Coca-Cola Company acquired Odwalla in 2001 to enter the organic beverage market.
Odwalla began in California in 1980 when three founders sold fresh, unpasteurized juice from a used bread truck. The company became known for refrigerated fruit and vegetable juices, smoothies, and other natural beverages. Its name came from a character in an African folk song used in the company’s early marketing.
Coca-Cola purchased Odwalla for approximately $181 million. The acquisition gave Coca-Cola a stronger presence in the growing market for premium juices and natural drinks, which was distinct from its traditional carbonated-soft-drink business.
Odwalla is sometimes confused with later Coca-Cola investments in health-oriented beverage companies. Coca-Cola acquired Honest Tea in 2011 and bought Glacéau in 2007. Those transactions involved different brands and different parts of Coca-Cola’s beverage portfolio.