Big news in the snack and pet care world — Mars is about to make a significant move that could reshape the landscape of global snacking! And here’s where it gets interesting: Mars has just received the final green light from European regulators to proceed with its acquisition of Kellanova, a major player in the snack industry. This clearance signals that all necessary approvals from authorities have now been secured, paving the way for the transaction to close soon.
On December 11, 2025, Mars and Kellanova are scheduled to complete their deal, assuming all standard closing conditions are met or waived. Once finalized, Kellanova’s extensive portfolio of popular snack brands, including Pringles®, Cheez-It®, Pop-Tarts®, Rice Krispies Treats®, RXBAR®, and internationally renowned cereal brands from Kellogg’s, will seamlessly integrate into Mars’s existing snacking lineup. This lineup already features household favorites like SNICKERS®, M&M’S®, TWIX®, SKITTLES®, EXTRA®, and KIND®.
The combined entity is projected to achieve an impressive annual revenue of approximately $36 billion, boasting nine brands that each generate over a billion dollars. Based in Chicago, Illinois, Mars Snacking will serve consumers across more than 145 markets worldwide. The business will be run by a dedicated team of over 50,000 employees, operating 80 manufacturing facilities globally and managing more than 170 retail outlets, including renowned locations like Hotel Chocolat and M&M’S World.
Poul Weihrauch, the CEO and President of Mars, expressed excitement about the approval, stating, "We are thrilled to have received the final regulatory nod for this acquisition. Our next step is to warmly welcome Kellanova’s talented employees and work together to grow a more innovative, global snacking powerhouse that offers greater variety and higher quality to consumers everywhere."
Andrew Clarke, the Global President of Mars Snacking, reflected on the journey, saying, "Today marks a truly historic milestone—years of effort by many of our colleagues. We eagerly anticipate combining our talents with Kellanova’s to create a leading international snack company that builds on our shared legacies, unlocking new growth opportunities ahead."
Kellanova’s Chairman and CEO, Steve Cahillane, also shared his enthusiasm, emphasizing that this merger is a convergence of two purpose-driven, principles-led organizations. He expressed confidence that Kellanova’s brands and team will thrive under Mars’s stewardship, saying, "It’s an honor to have led Kellanova into this new chapter, and I look forward to seeing our brands flourish as part of Mars Snacking."
The merger process was first announced on August 14, 2024, when the companies entered into a definitive agreement. Shareholders of Kellanova approved the deal on November 1, 2024. All 28 regulatory approvals needed for completion were completed by December 8, 2025. Once the deal closes, Kellanova’s stock will be delisted and will stop trading on the New York Stock Exchange.
About Mars, Incorporated:
Mars is a privately owned, global powerhouse with an annual turnover of around $55 billion and a workforce of 150,000. Its diverse offerings span pet care products and veterinary services—such as ROYAL CANIN®, PEDIGREE®, and WHISKAS®—to popular snacks and foods enjoyed by millions daily, including M&M’S®, SNICKERS®, and BEN’S ORIGINAL™. Mars also leads in veterinary care through extensive networks, including BANFIELD™, BLUEPEARL™, VCA™, and ANICURA™, alongside innovative pet diagnostics via ANTECH™.
You can learn more about Mars and its initiatives by visiting www.mars.com, and follow their stories on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
About Kellanova:
Kellanova, listed on NYSE as K, has been a leader in global snacks, cereals, noodles, and North American frozen foods for over a century. The company’s impressive portfolio features iconic brands like Pringles®, Cheez-It®, Pop-Tarts®, Rice Krispies Treats®, RXBAR®, and Eggo®. Kellanova aims to become the world's highest-performing snack-focused company, leveraging its unique brands and dedicated team to unlock tremendous growth potential.
For more insights into Kellanova’s story and offerings, visit www.Kellanova.com.
Forward-Looking Statements:
This announcement contains forward-looking statements about the proposed merger between Mars and Kellanova. These statements involve expectations about timing, benefits, integration efforts, and future performance. They are based on current beliefs and assumptions, but inherently carry risks—including regulatory hurdles, market conditions, potential delays, or unforeseen costs—that could cause actual results to differ significantly. Factors influencing these outcomes are detailed in the companies’ SEC filings. Readers are encouraged to consider these risks and recognize that plans may change, and forecasts are not guarantees of future results.
Questions for the audience:
Do you agree that such a merger could lead to more innovative and diverse snack options for consumers worldwide? Or do you see potential risks that might outweigh the benefits? Share your thoughts and join the debate below!
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