When we think about the major players in the cereal industry, most of the attention goes to Kellogg and General Mills, the world's largest cereal companies. Beyond that are several other players, such as Post and Quaker, but these seem to pale in comparison. Or do they?
Post, in particular, is a dark horse that is quietly and quickly gaining momentum to be more than an also-ran, third place contender. Historically, Post was right there from the beginning as a rival in Battle Creek with the Kellogg brothers. Over the years, however, Post lost its edge, falling behind in the pack. Things have begun to change in the last decade after several ownership shifts and reorganizations. This included a merger with Ralcorp (i.e. Ralston cereals) and the purchase of Malt-O-Meal. Previously, Nabisco was incorporated into the company as well. Other brands in the Post portfolio include Better Oats, Mom's Best Cereals, and Peace Cereals.
Last month, another major milestone for Post was achieved with the
takeover of U.K. cereal giant, Weetabix.
Weetabix itself (i.e. a wheat and malted barely cereal) is somewhat obscure for most Americans, but is an icon in Britain. The purchase by Post not only gives the company a greater foothold in the U.K. market, but gives Post some additional opportunities in the U.S. In addition to Weetabix itself, the Alpen and Barbara's brands are now Post's as well. Post CEO Robert Vitale has said that with this acquisition, "it’s the right time to bring all our cereal brands under one unit." (Source:
Food Business News) All of this means that Post's brand matrix is stronger and more diverse than ever. If carefully managed, this could further bolster Post ahead in an already tight cereal market and race.
The company could truly be poised to "be first past the post" (pun intended)!
