European Commission grants final approval for Mars’ $36bn Kellanova acquisition, creating a global snacking powerhouse with nine billion-dollar brands.
Mars, Incorporated has secured final, unconditional regulatory approval from the European Commission for its $36 billion acquisition of Kellanova, allowing the two global snacking businesses to close their long-planned takeover on 11 December 2025.
The approval completes all 28 required international regulatory sign-offs and removes the final barrier to uniting two of the sector’s biggest portfolios.
Confirming the decision, Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, said:
We looked very carefully at this deal to make sure that Mars would not gain extra power over retailers, power that could lead to for example higher prices for shops and, ultimately, for consumers.
Our review found no evidence that this risk exists, so we have decided to approve the acquisition. We will continue to make full use of our powers under the Merger Regulation to ensure that competition keeps food prices affordable.”
Iconic global snacking brands under one portfolio
The deal will see Kellanova’s brands – including Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, Rice Krispies Treats, RXBAR and Kellogg’s international cereal brands – absorbed into Mars’ existing snacking unit, home to Snickers, M&M’s, Twix, Skittles, Extra and Kind. The combined business will generate around $36 billion in annual revenue, with nine brands each delivering more than $1 billion in sales.
Poul Weihrauch, CEO and Office of the President of Mars, said:
We are excited to have received final regulatory approval for the pending acquisition of Kellanova. 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.”
Following completion, Mars Snacking will continue to be headquartered in Chicago, operating in more than 145 markets, supported by over 50,000 employees. The business will run 80 manufacturing facilities worldwide and a retail network of more than 170 outlets, including Hotel Chocolat stores and M&M’S World locations.
Andrew Clarke, Global President of Mars Snacking, said the agreement represented the culmination of extensive planning.
Today marks an extraordinary milestone and the culmination of years of work for many of our Associates. We can’t wait to welcome Kellanova talent to Mars and create a shared, global snacking leader with a beloved range of brands. We’ve said all along that Mars Snacking and Kellanova will be better together, building on the strength of our respective legacies and capabilities to unlock new possibilities and drive growth.”
Kellanova’s Chairman, President and CEO Steve Cahillane added:
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.”
Mars agreed terms to acquire Kellanova in August 2024, with Kellanova shareholders approving the transaction on 1 November 2024. Mars secured final regulatory clearance on 8 December 2025. When the deal closes, Kellanova will delist its common stock and end trading on the New York Stock Exchange.
