Ballyclare/LHD (UK)
The CMA investigated the completed acquisition by Ballyclare Limited of LHD Group (UK) Limited.
Statutory timetable
| Phase 1 date | Action |
|---|---|
| 14 October 2014 | Decision published |
| 26 August 2014 | Decision announced |
| 30 June 2014 | Launch of merger inquiry |
| 30 June to 11 July 2014 | Invitation to comment |
| 31 March 2014 | Initial undertakings accepted |
| 25 February 2014 | Statutory timetable suspended |
| 13 February 2014 | Launch of merger inquiry |
Phase 1
CMA clearance decision
26 August 2014: The CMA has cleared the completed acquisition by Ballyclare Limited of LHD Group (UK) Limited. The full text of the decision is available below:
- Full text decision (14.10.14)
Launch of CMA merger inquiry
30 June 2014: The CMA announced the launch of its merger inquiry by notice to the parties.
Invitation to comment: Now closed
30 June 2014: The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is considering whether it is or may be the case that this transaction has resulted in the creation of a relevant merger situation under the merger provisions of the Enterprise Act 2002 and, 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.
Initial undertakings
On 31 March 2014 hold separate undertakings under Section 71 of the Enterprise Act 2002 were accepted by the OFT. A copy of the Undertakings are here.
- Amendments/consents granted: Derogation letter 8 April 2014 (pdf 127kb)
Statutory timetable suspended
The statutory timetable was suspended on 25 February 2014 when the parties failed to provide information required by the OFT in the enquiry letter under section 31 of the Act. The statutory timetable resumed on 26 June 2014 when the CMA received the required information from Ballyclare.
Launch of OFT merger inquiry
13 February 2014: The OFT launched an own-initiative merger investigation by sending an inquiry letter. This merger inquiry is now being dealt with by the CMA.
Contact
Please send written representations about any competition or public interest to:
Sophie Simons
Competition and Markets Authority
Victoria House
37 Southampton Row
London
WC1B 4AD