The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has provisionally concluded that the purchase by Euro Car Parts of much of Andrew Page could “damage competition in ten local areas” following an investigation into the merger.
The CMA identified areas where the two companies were close competitors and where the merger could result in reduced competition for local customers, leading to higher prices or a lower quality of service.
Areas highlighted by the CMA
- Blackpool
- Brighton
- Gloucester
- Liphook
- Scunthorpe
- Sunderland
- Swindon
- Wakefield
- Worthing
- York
Speaking previously to GW at the time of the investigation launch, Martin Gray, chief executive officer of ECP told GW that the company “voluntarily approached the CMA regarding its acquisition” and said he expected the investigation to take place.
He added: “In the longer term, it is no secret that Andrew Page will be developed further as a separate brand, our main priority is to re-establish a robust supply chain for Andrew Page.”