Kellanova's Trading Volume Plummets 47.92% Ranking 201st as Mars' $36 Billion Takeover Faces EU Scrutiny

On June 20, 2025, Kellanova's trading volume was $437 million, a 47.92% decrease from the previous day, ranking 201st in the day's stock market. Kellanova (K) fell by 0.40%, marking its third consecutive day of decline, with a total drop of 2.09% over the past three days.

Mars, the privately-owned snacks and confectionery giant, has reportedly failed to address the competition concerns of EU regulators regarding its $36 billion takeover of Kellanova. The deal, which includes the Pringles brand, was finalized in August 2024 for $35.9 billion, with the condition that it must be approved by competition authorities. However, Mars did not provide the necessary 'remedies' to secure approval by the June 18 deadline, raising speculation that it may need to divest assets from the takeover.

Sources suggest that the European Commission's merger body is likely to launch an in-depth investigation into the merger following the end of its preliminary review on June 25. The takeover, which falls under US jurisdiction, involves both Mars and Kellanova operating globally, including in the EU. Kellanova owns brands such as Cheez-It and Pop-Tart, while Mars also operates in the pet food sector.

The European Commission has invited third parties to comment on the transaction, expressing concerns about Mars' high market share in certain products in some EU countries. The merger, one of the largest in the packaged foods industry, creates a business with annual sales revenue of at least $60 billion. Kellanova, formerly part of Kellogg before a demerger in 2023, would become part of Mars Snacking, led by global president Andrew Clarke and headquartered in Chicago. Kellanova's manufacturing plant in Battle Creek, Michigan, and its plant-based foods brand, MorningStar Farms, would also come under Mars' umbrella.