CMA launches formal investigation into Sainsbury’s-Asda merger

The Competition and Markets Authority has launched its formal investigation into the proposed merger between Sainsbury’s and Asda.

It has been gathering information since the deal was announced on 30th April and is now starting on the first phase of its detailed assessment.

As part of the process it has issued a second invitation to comment on the merger. It said it was giving all interested parties a further opportunity to submit views about the impact that the proposed merger could have on competition in the UK and about whether there are any objections to the use of the fast-track procedure in this case.

“The CMA will take into account all views already submitted as part of its preliminary invitation to comment launched on May 2018 and it is not necessary to re-submit any comments made previously.

Comments should be submitted to the CMA by 31st August.