UK: CMA invites comments on Sainsbury’s-Asda merger

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has formally launched its investigation into the proposed merger of Sainsbury’s and Asda. This coming Friday, August 31, is the deadline for comments from interested parties in the proposed Sainsbury’s and Asda merger, which has the potential to create the largest UK retail chain and rival market leader Tesco.

The CMA is asking for views on the impact the merger could have on competition in the UK market. It is planning to use a fast-track procedure for the case that could see it move onto the more in-depth phase two investigation within around 15 days of its August 23 launch.

A deadline on August 31 has been set for a second round of comments on the merger. In the first preliminary round, points raised included concerns about potential store closures and the effect they might have on local communities, as well as concerns about pricing and a squeeze on those supplying the two supermarkets as they gain increased buying power. Harlow MP Robert Halfon has raised the importance of protecting jobs at the two supermarkets, from logistics and home delivery workers to supermarket staff both in the near future and in the long term.

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