P.M. BRIEFING : Otsuka Buys Crystal Geyser

CALISTOGA, Calif. — Japanese company Otsuka Pharmaceuticals Inc. has purchased controlling interest in Crystal Geyser Water Co., company officials announced.

Neither company would comment on the terms of the transaction. But in a written statement, Crystal Geyser spokesman Kevin McClanahan said the deal will enable the company--one of the five largest water bottling companies in the country--to expand its marketing and distribution.

Crystal Geyser will also gain access to Otsuka’s beverages, including a popular Japanese sports drink and fruit-flavored soft drinks.

Crystal Geyser’s current product lineup includes natural sparkling water, sparkling water with fruit juice, citrus-flavored mineral water and a spring water produced through a joint venture with Societe Roxane of France.