Kellanova (K) shares surged more than 14% Monday following a Reuters report that Mars, the family-owned packaged food giant known for brands like M&M's and Snickers, is considering a potential acquisition of the snack maker.
A potential acquisition would mark one of the largest deals ever in the packaged food sector, given Kellanova's market value of approximately $27 billion, including debt.
Kellanova's shares have risen about 28% so far this year. Despite this increase, prior to today's move, the company had continued to trade at a discount compared to peers like Hershey and Mondelez International, making it an attractive target.
However, according to Reuters, citing sources, there is no certainty that Kellanova will finalize a deal with Mars, as other suitors may also approach, and the possibility remains that no agreement will be reached.
The potential acquisition highlights ongoing robust dealmaking in the packaged food sector as companies seek to scale up to combat price inflation.
A deal for Kellanova would be the largest in Mars' history, surpassing its $9.1 billion acquisition of veterinary hospital operator VCA in 2017.
Mars has been diversifying through acquisitions, operating under three divisions: Mars Petcare, Mars Snacking, and Mars Food & Nutrition. Kellanova, which markets products in over 180 countries, remains a significant player in the snack and breakfast food market.
Reacting to the report, analysts at RBC Capital said in a note Monday that they believe Mars’ interest in Kellanova is "legit."
"Usually, where there is smoke, there is fire, but the track record of the press anticipating M&A has not always been accurate," said the bank. However, in the instance of Mars and Kellanova, analysts said they believe there is something here.
"In fact, this makes so much sense to us that we are taking up our price target to reflect high potential for a deal and upgrading K shares to Outperform," declared the firm, which also raised its target for Kellanove to $76 from $62 per share.