UK: Tobii AB/Smartbox deal investigated further

Tobii AB announced that the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced that it postponed its final conclusion in the investigation of the acquisition of Smartbox Assistive Technology by Tobii by up to eight weeks.

CMA’s final conclusion was expected to be announced by July 25, but has now been extended with up to eight weeks meaning the reference period will be extended to September 19, 2019. Tobii continues to work closely with the CMA in the final stages of the investigation.

On October 1, 2018, Tobii AB acquired Smartbox Assistive Technology, a UK based company operating in the field of assistive technology for communication. Smartbox employs some 70 people. Net sales in 2017 were £9.3 million (US$11.6 million).

Upon the announcement of the acquisition, the CMA opened an investigation, expressing concerns that Tobii’s acquisition of Smartbox may lead to less choice, lack of innovation, and higher prices for people with speech and language disabilities in the UK. Tobii disagreed with these concerns and has since worked closely with the CMA during the investigation process. The two companies’ brands and operations have been held separate, pending completion of the review.