Headlines
EU antitrust regulators resume Mars, Kellanova probe, decision due December 19
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on September 17, 2025
1 min readLast updated: January 21, 2026
Quick Summary
EU antitrust regulators resume Mars' $36B Kellanova acquisition probe, with a decision due by December 19.
EU Resumes Investigation into Mars' $36 Billion Kellanova Acquisition
EU Antitrust Investigation Overview
BRUSSELS (Reuters) -EU antitrust regulators have resumed their investigation into candy maker Mars' $36 billion bid for Pringles maker Kellanova, setting a December 19 deadline for their decision, according to an update on the European Commission website.
Background of the Acquisition
The Commission, which acts as the EU competition enforcer, temporarily halted its probe in late July while waiting for the companies to provide requested information.
Potential Market Implications
It opened a full-scale investigation in June, warning that the deal could lead to price hikes and may boost Mars' negotiating power with retailers.
Timeline for Decision
The deal, among the biggest in the sector and already cleared unconditionally in the United States, would bring brands from M&Ms, Snickers and Whiskas to Pringles, Pop-Tarts and Kellogg cereals under one roof.
(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
Key Takeaways
- •EU regulators are investigating Mars' acquisition of Kellanova.
- •The decision is expected by December 19.
- •The probe was paused in July for more information.
- •Concerns include potential price hikes and market power.
- •The deal has been cleared in the US.
Frequently Asked Questions about EU antitrust regulators resume Mars, Kellanova probe, decision due December 19
1What is the deadline for the EU's decision on the Mars-Kellanova deal?
The EU antitrust regulators have set a deadline of December 19 for their decision regarding the Mars-Kellanova deal.
2Why did the EU temporarily halt its investigation?
The investigation was temporarily halted in late July while the companies were asked to provide additional requested information.
3What concerns did the EU raise about the Mars-Kellanova deal?
The EU warned that the deal could lead to price hikes and may enhance Mars' negotiating power with retailers.
4How significant is the Mars-Kellanova deal in the market?
The deal is among the largest in the sector and has already been cleared unconditionally in the United States.
5What brands would be affected by the Mars-Kellanova merger?
The merger would combine brands such as M&Ms, Snickers, and Whiskas with Pringles, Pop-Tarts, and Kellogg cereals.
