gmcr

So far, much of the U.S. has experienced a bitterly cold winter, and the harsh weather is forecast to linger through February. It's been a boon for some sectors of the economy, even as it drags down others.

There's a bidding war brewing over Diedrich Coffee (DDRX), the maker of single-serving cups of joe for home or office percolation. Diedrich agreed on Nov. 2 to sell itself to Peet's Coffee and Tea (PEET), the java chain that is said to have inspired Starbucks (SBUX). But now Peet's has...