The CMA has opened an investigation into Heineken’s proposed acquisition of part of the Punch Taverns pubs portfolio.
The first phase of the investigation is currently scheduled to last until 24 April 2017. During this period, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will assess whether the deal could reduce competition and choice for customers.
If it could reduce competition, the CMA would launch an in-depth merger investigation, which lasts up to 24 weeks, unless the merging parties offer undertakings which address any competition concerns identified.
More details will be available on the investigation case page shortly. Interested parties and individuals are invited to submit their views to lasse.burmester@cma.gsi.gov.uk by 2 March 2017.
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