Beatrice Plans to Sell Avis

Beatrice Cos. said today that it plans to sell its Avis Inc. car rental agency and three other businesses as it continues to pare the debt from its 1984 acquisition of Esmark Inc.

Avis, the nation’s second-largest car-rental agency, posted a profit of $68 million for Beatrice in the second quarter. Beatrice said it also plans to sell Danskin, which makes clothing such as leotards and tights; Pennaco Hosiery, and International Jensen.