'Beverly Hills Billionaires' -- Owner of Franklin Mint and Teleflora -- Said in Talks to Buy Fiji Water.

Talks under way which could lead to sale of Fiji Water to Roll International, owner of Franklin Mint collectibles vendor and other companies. One source says deal could be signed by year-end, but cautions "anything can happen." Brand. Last year, Fiji's 192-oz volume was about 8.2 mil cases, up +61% vs 2002. Brand is premium-priced and sold at retail plus in upscale hotels and restaurants. Price. Possible deal price unknown. But one water company executive speculates that, if Fiji's volume this year were to be 10+ mil 192-oz cases, price might be range of $50 mil; that is based on his valuation of about $10-$15 per physical -- or 405-oz -- case. Uncertain re valuation -- and future ownership -- of real estate/plant in Fiji.

Potential buyer; 'billionaires.' Little detail is available on possible buyer Roll International. It is private Los Angeles-based company owned/run by wealthy couple Stewart and Lynda Resnick. According to various on-line sources, Roll owns, in addition to Franklin Mint: Teleflora floral delivery system; Paramount Farms pistachio/almond farm operation in California; and Paramount Citrus grower/packer/shipper of California citrus. Resnicks appear to be on boards of several prestigious art museums in U.S. In 2002, NY Times story described Resnicks as "Beverly Hills billionaires," who had planted 6000 acres of pomegranates. Noted couple's Paramount operations are "nation's largest fruit and nut growing operation, with 125 square miles of farms." Resnick company produces/sells "Pom Wonderful" pomegranate juice drinks.

Fiji background. Fiji water founded in 1997 by current owner, Canadian businessman David Gilmour. Gilmour's business background is in gold, real estate and hotels. He currently owns Fijian island Wakaya, where he has opened pricey resort. Company now run by Doug Carlson. Brand handled in U.S. by multiple independent system bottlers.