Washington, D.C.-based Carlyle, with $35 billion under management, is the largest of the three successful joint bidders.

Pernod Ricard SA agreed to sell Dunkin’ Brands to three U.S. private equity firms for $2.43 billion, the French drinks giant said Monday.

Pernod announced the sale to Thomas H. Lee Partners, the Carlyle Group and Bain Capital four days after bidding closed in an auction for the U.S. fast food company — owner of the Dunkin’ Donuts chain, Baskin-Robbins ice cream parlors and Togo’s sandwich stores.

Boston-based Bain Capital has invested in more than 225 companies over the last two decades, including Domino’s Pizza, Inc. and Burger King Corp. Investments by T. H. Lee, also a Boston firm, include Snapple Beverage Corp.

Washington, D.C.-based Carlyle, with $35 billion under management, is the largest of the three successful joint bidders.

The three companies will invest equal amounts of equity in the company, according to a joint press release.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10441279

Those who are aware of Carlyle should take a heads up on this and the way the industrial complex is globalizing.