The Italian confectioners' company PRFETTI (700 million euro turnover in 1999) is to make a 606 million euro public bid for 63% of the capital that it still does not hold in the Dutch firm VAN MELLE ("Mentos" and "Fruitalla" sweets; 448 million euro turnover in 1999). This operation will give rise to Europe's number two and the world's number six in chewing-gums and sweets, with an annual turnover of 1.2 bn euro. The Italian firm is offering 55 euro for each VAN MELLE share in circulation, offer that the Dutch firm has recommended to its shareholders.