Mars receives final approval for its Kellanova acquisition

Mars and Kellanova have announced that Mars has received unconditional approval from the European Commission for its pending acquisition of Kellanova. As a result, all required regulatory approvals and clearances for the pending transaction have been obtained.

Upon close, which is expected on 11 December, Kellanova’s portfolio of snacking brands, which includes Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, Rice Krispies Treats, RXBAR and Kellogg’s international cereal brands, will join the existing Mars Snacking portfolio, which includes brands like SNICKERS, M&M’S, TWIX, SKITTLES, EXTRA and KIND.

Mars expects the combined snacking business to generate around US$36bn in annual revenues, with a portfolio that includes nine billion-dollar brands. Mars Snacking will continue to be headquartered in Chicago, IL and will operate in more than 145 markets, serving millions of consumers. Powered by a team of more than 50,000 Associates, it will operate 80 global production facilities and more than 170 retail outlets like Hotel Chocolat and M&M’S World.

“We are excited to have received final regulatory approval for the pending acquisition of Kellanova,” said Poul Weihrauch, CEO and Office of the President of Mars, Incorporated. “Our focus now turns to welcoming Kellanova employees to Mars and creating an even more innovative global snacking business that delivers greater choice and quality to more consumers around the world.”

Steve Cahillane, Chairman, President and CEO of Kellanova, said, “This combination will bring together two purpose-driven and principles-led companies. Serving as Kellanova’s Chairman, President and CEO has been a true honour, and I’m looking forward to seeing Kellanova people and brands thrive as part of Mars Snacking.”

The parties announced on 14 August that they had entered into a definitive agreement under which Mars agreed to acquire Kellanova. The pending transaction received Kellanova shareowner approval on 1 November. The pending merger received the final of all 28 required regulatory approvals and clearances on 8 December 2025. Following the completion of the pending transaction, which remains subject to customary closing conditions, Kellanova’s common stock will be delisted and will cease trading on the New York Stock Exchange.

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