Steve Cahillane, the chairman, president, and CEO of Kellanova, based in Chicago, expressed enthusiasm over the company’s recent agreement to join Mars, emphasizing that it marks a significant historical milestone with a strong cultural and strategic alignment. Cahillane remarked on Kellanova’s goal of becoming the leading snacking company globally and noted that this transaction enhances their ability to reach this goal. He highlighted that the all-cash deal is designed to maximize shareholder value and opens new opportunities for employees, customers, and suppliers. Cahillane looks forward to this new chapter, which combines the strengths of both companies to benefit their communities. He expressed confidence that Mars is ideally suited for Kellanova’s brands and workforce, given its history of successfully integrating and supporting acquired businesses.
Upon completion of the transaction, Kellanova will be integrated into Mars Snacking, which is led by Global President Andrew Clarke from Chicago. This merger aims to broaden the reach of Mars’s popular brands to a wider consumer base worldwide. Mars intends to cultivate and develop Kellanova’s brands further, focusing on innovation to align with changing consumer preferences, expanding local investments, and offering healthier nutritional choices.
Clarke stated that this collaboration presents a valuable chance to build a more extensive global snacking enterprise, allowing both Kellanova and Mars Snacking to realize their full capabilities. He noted the shared history between the two companies in fostering renowned brands and recognized that Kellanova’s product range would significantly enhance Mars’s snacking platform. This partnership is expected to improve consumer engagement and drive profitable growth through the shared portfolios, distribution strategies, and research and development initiatives, leading to innovative solutions in responsible snacking.