Catch you later, snicker? Executives unblock export plan on Mars India before Kelanova merges
Nearly 12 executives have left the Indian unit of candy and snack maker in the past 12 months, while a few have moved roles outside the country.
“There is uncertainty over how the merger will affect the role of the two Indian companies; there is no clear communication at the headquarters,” the above person said. “In addition, the leadership has been at the leadership level after former Indian chief Kalpesh Parmar moved to a global role in March 2023.”
The manufacturer of Snickers, Galaxy and M&M chocolates has appointed Ahmed Abdel Wahab as general manager of India after Tamer Kadry-Who succeeded Parmar, as the country has led positions with Asia about 6 months ago.
However, some quoted above say that the Wahab role in India is temporary arrangement.
Mars announced the acquisition of Kelanova for $35.9 billion in August last year, and the two companies are expected to officially start the merger process from October this year.
The people quoted above said that Kelanova operates larger in India than Mars, with stronger ground distribution networks and e-commerce and fast commerce capabilities.
“So, global parents are considering moving the headquarters of the merged entity to Mumbai, where Kelanova India is located,” one executive said. “In addition, both Kellanova and Mars Wrigley have manufacturing plants in Maharashtra, so there is the synergy of logistics and cost savings.”
Mars Wrigley India Office is located in Gururam.
Among executives who left Mars Wrigley India in recent months, Chief Information Officer Rajni Singh Business Director Aditya Sayan.
“A large portion of these shifts reflects internal career development, expanded responsibilities, and new roles in various markets,” a Mars Wrigley India spokesperson said in an email. “Others are the result of individuals’ choices to seek external opportunities, driven by long-term aspirations or better renovations elsewhere.” Nearly half of these roles have not been filled.
While Mars makes candy, snacks and pet food, Kellanova makes breakfast cereals under Kellogg and Pringles fries.
Mars International India’s sales grew 3% in the year ended March 2024 with sales of Rs 233 billion, up 24% in the fiscal year 23.3 billion, which is a higher demand challenge rate in the chocolate and candy market of Rs 25,000 crore, and its business slowed sharply. In FY25, its loss range narrowed to Rs 18 crore.
