Unilever Said to Start Sale Talks for £15 Billion Ice Cream Unit

Unilever Plc has kicked off initial discussions with buyout firms about a possible sale of its ice cream business, which could be worth as much as £15 billion ($19.4 billion), according to people familiar with the matter.

The consumer goods company has started holding management presentations with potential bidders about the business, which is home to brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Magnum, the people said. Private equity firms Advent International, Blackstone Inc., Cinven and CVC Capital Partners Plc are among those that have shown preliminary interest, the people said.

Other buyout firms such as Clayton Dubilier & ...