Ferrero Buys Kellogg’s in $3.1B Deal, Ending Michigan Ownership

For generations, Michiganders have taken pride in locally made products—from Koegel Meats and Better Made Chips to Faygo, Vernor's, Jiffy Mix, and Kellogg’s cereals. But now, one of the state’s most iconic brands is no longer Michigan-owned.

On July 10, 2025, it was officially announced that The Ferrero Group, an Italian confectionery giant, has entered into an agreement to acquire WK Kellogg Co’s entire cereal portfolio. The deal, worth $3.1 billion, was confirmed by both companies and marks a major shift in ownership of some of America’s most beloved breakfast staples.

From Battle Creek to the World

WK Kellogg Co, based in Battle Creek, was formed in 2023 after the Kellogg Company split into two separate entities: one for cereals (WK Kellogg Co) and one for snacks, which included brands like Cheez-Its and Pop-Tarts. That snack division was sold to Mars, Inc. in Virginia in a $36 billion deal, leaving the cereal business to continue independently—until now.

The acquisition will transfer household names like Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, and Frosted Mini-Wheats into the hands of Ferrero, the company best known for Ferrero Rocher, Nutella, and Kinder chocolates.

What Happens Next with Kellogg Sale?

While the announcement is official, the deal is not yet finalized. The WK Kellogg Co Board of Directors has unanimously approved the transaction, but it still requires shareholder approval, regulatory clearance, and other closing conditions. The sale is expected to close by the end of 2025.

WK Kellogg Co CEO Speaks on the Sale

WK Kellogg Co chairman and CEO Gary Pilnick expressed optimism about the transition:

"We believe this proposed transaction maximizes value for our shareowners and enables WK Kellogg Co to write the next chapter of our company’s storied legacy."

Get our free mobile app

He added that since becoming a public company in October 2023, Kellogg’s cereal division has made strong progress toward building a more focused, profitable business.

A Bittersweet Goodbye for Michigan

The sale marks a bittersweet moment for Michiganders who grew up with the Kellogg’s name synonymous with Michigan pride and breakfast traditions. While production and branding are expected to continue out of Battle Creek, ownership will now reside in Europe.