Kimberly-Clark-Kenvue deal raises EU concerns over ‘iconic brands’ concentration
By Jean Comte ( August 31, 2026, 09:46 GMT | Comment) -- Kimberly-Clark is due to hear by Sept. 29 whether its $49 billion planned acquisition of Kenvue to create a global powerhouse in the personal care and hygiene market will require an in-depth probe by EU merger regulators, a move that would derail its plans to close the deal this year. The European Commission’s December clearance of Mars' takeover of Kellanova, a similarly large union of top brands, could provide a playbook for managing any competition concerns that could arise.Kimberly-Clark can expect to be told by EU merger regulators by Sept. 29 if its $49 billion acquisition of Kenvue to create a global personal care and hygiene market powerhouse requires an in-depth review, a move which would scupper its plans to close the deal this year. ...
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