The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) stated on Tuesday, October 12, that it has announced to French waste-and-water-management companies Suez and Veolia that it has launched a merger inquiry into their deal.
The CMA “is considering whether it is or may be the case that this transaction has resulted in the creation of a relevant merger situation.”
“If so, whether the creation of that situation has resulted, or may be expected to result, in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods or services,” it stated.
Related: Veolia, Suez Will Seek EU Antitrust OK For Their Concessions
The CMA stated that the deadline for its phase 1 decision is December 7. The CMA issued an initial enforcement order on 1 February 2021 concerning Veolia’s UK operations. This was triggered by Paris-based Veolia’s acquisition of a 29.9% stake in its French counterpart Suez last year.
As part of the probe, it is believed the heads of the major waste companies in the UK have been written to ask their opinions on the deal.
Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.
