The proposed merger between the fifth- and sixth-biggest retailers in France, Système U and Auchan, has reached the ‘intensive’ second phase of its investigation, which is being carried out by the country’s competition authority.
In a press statement, L'Autorité de la Concurrence said that this thorough part of its assessment will allow it to study how a buying-power amalgamation between the two grocers will affect producers, growers and suppliers along the various supply chains in different areas of France.
It has also said it will “deepen its understanding of the competitive pressure [the merger] would apply on other retailers in different geographical zones – particularly with regard to click-and-collect retailing.”
“Regulatory guidelines state that the review should be carried out within 65 working days from the beginning of Phase 2, though this period may be extended if deemed necessary,” the statement added.
© 2016 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Peter Donnelly. To subscribe to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine, click here.
