Vehicle data merger to go ahead after firms address competition concerns
The CMA has accepted proposals to resolve competition concerns in the merger of Solera Holdings, Inc. and Autodata Publishing Group Limited.
The companies are the 2 main suppliers of data services for mechanics across the UK. Garages and workshops use this data to help diagnose, service and repair vehicles.
The companies compete closely with each other meaning that, if the merger had gone ahead as planned, garages could see prices rise or a drop in the quality of their service.
In response to these concerns, Solera offered to sell its vehicle repair and maintenance information platforms to HaynesPro, a buyer approved in advance by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). It also offered to provide transitional support to the buyer. The authority assessed Solera’s remedies offer and opened a public consultation.
Following this public consultation, and after the CMA approved the sale agreement between Solera and HaynesPro, it has now accepted Solera’s remedies proposal.
Solera and Autodata Publishing Group Limited are now free to progress their merger, which will not be referred for an in-depth (‘phase 2’) investigation.
All information relating to this investigation can be found on the case page.