Newell Rubbermaid, Jarden in Merger Talks

Newell Rubbermaid Inc. and Jarden Corp. are in talks to combine, according to people familiar with the matter, in a deal that would unite makers of well-known consumer brands including Sharpie markers, Graco baby strollers and Mr. Coffee machines.

The terms under discussion couldn't be learned, and it is possible the talks won't lead to a deal.

Newell Rubbermaid is slightly larger, with a market capitalization of about $12 billion Monday afternoon, compared with Jarden's value of $10.5 billion. Based on a typical takeover premium, an acquisition of Jarden could value the company at $13 billion or more.

The combined company would have around $14 billion in annual sales.

By Liz Hoffman, Dana Mattioli and Dana Cimilluca