Kerry Group’s acquisition of frozen ready meals maker Headland Foods has had final approval from the Competition Commission (CC).
The UK watchdog today (2 December) formally cleared the deal, which underwent an investigation after retail customers complained the January takeover had led to higher prices. The CC found that several customers had found alternative suppliers after Kerry mooted price increases, at prices similar to those they had been paying prior to switching.
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A statement from the body said: “The CC has therefore concluded that the existing and potential alternatives offered by other suppliers will ensure that the merger does not lead to a substantial lessening of competition.”
