Giovanni Ferrero has expanded his family's company beyond brands like Nutella and built a global powerhouse—especially through big acquisitions in the U.S.

Ferrero, the maker of Nutella, announces a $3.1 billion deal to acquire century-old cereal company WK Kellogg, expanding its North American breakfast and snack portfolio.

Ferrero, the Italian candy company behind Ferrero Rocher and Nutella, is nearing a deal to buy WK Kellogg, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday.