Netto / Co-operative (3 stores) merger inquiry

The CMA investigated the completed acquisition by Netto Limited of 3 grocery stores from Co-operative Group Limited.

• From: Competition and Markets Authority
• Published: 25 February 2016
• Last updated: 10 March 2016 — See all updates

• Case type: Mergers
• Case state: Closed
• Market sector: Retail and wholesale
• Outcome: Mergers - phase 1 clearance
• Opened: 25 January 2016
• Closed: 10 March 2016

Statutory timetable

Phase 1 dates	Action
10 March 2016	Decision published
25 February 2016	Decision announced
1 February to 12 February 2016	Invitation to comment
25 January 2016	Launch of merger inquiry

Phase 1

CMA clearance decision

25 February 2016: The CMA has cleared the acquisition by Netto Limited of 3 grocery stores from Co-operative Group Limited. The full text of the decision is available below.

• Full text decision (10.3.16)

Invitation to comment: Now closed

1 February 2016: 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.

The addresses of the three Co-operative stores are:

• Edlington Lane, New Edlington, Doncaster DN12 1BS
• Hull Road, Hedon By-Pass, Hull HU12 8DJ
• 639 Roundhay Road, Leeds LS8 4BA

Launch of merger inquiry

25 January 2016: The CMA launched its merger inquiry following the decision of the European Commission of 22 January 2016 referring the case to the United Kingdom following a reasoned submission under Article 4(4) of Regulation No 139/2004.

The CMA originally investigated the anticipated acquisition by Netto Limited of 3 grocery stores from Co-operative Group Limited between June and August 2015. Following the publication of the CMA’s decision, it came to light that the Transaction had an EU dimension and was required to be notified to the European Commission. Following the decision of the European Commission to refer the case to the United Kingdom, the CMA has revoked its decision of 24 July 2015 and is currently reviewing the Transaction under the merger control provisions of the Enterprise Act 2002.

Published 25 February 2016
Last updated 10 March 2016 + show all updates

1. 10 March 2016

   Full text of the decision published.

2. 25 February 2016

   Clearance decision announced.