Steve Cahillane, chairman, president, and CEO of Kellanova, based in Chicago, described the upcoming merger with Mars as a historic alliance with significant cultural and strategic alignment. He stated that Kellanova has been on a transformation path to become the leading snacking company globally, and the partnership with Mars will help accelerate their vision and potential. The all-cash transaction promises to maximize shareholder value at an attractive price, presenting new opportunities for employees, customers, and suppliers alike. Cahillane expressed enthusiasm for Kellanova’s future under Mars, which will bring together exceptional talent and a mutual commitment to community support.
After the merger, Kellanova will be integrated into Mars Snacking under the leadership of Global President Andrew Clarke, with operations centered in Chicago. This integration aims to enhance the availability of popular brands to consumers worldwide. Mars intends to support Kellanova’s brands by fostering innovation that aligns with changing consumer preferences, investing locally to broaden market access, and offering more nutritious snacking options.
Clarke remarked on the exciting potential of this merger to create a larger, global snacking business, enabling both Kellanova and Mars Snacking to reach their full capacities. He noted that Kellanova’s brands will significantly enhance Mars’s snacking platform, improving their ability to meet consumer demands and promote profitable growth. By leveraging their combined resources, market strategies, and research and development strengths, the two companies aim to drive innovative, responsible snacking solutions into the future.