UK competition regulator finds concerns in Lindab's acquisition of HAS-Vent (updated)

Lindab International AB

22/08/2024 08:31

(Adds details of provisional findings in paragraphs 2 and 3)
       Aug 22 (Reuters) - 
    The UK competition regulator said on Thursday its in-depth
probe has provisionally found that Lindab's  LIAB.ST 
acquisition of British ventilation firm HAS-Vent could result in
higher costs for ventilation systems in some areas.
    The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said its Phase 2
review found competition concerns in the supply of circular
ducts and fittings in areas around Nottingham and
Stoke-on-Trent.
    The regulator said the deal could lead to reduced choice and
higher prices in the construction sector, particularly for
specialist installers of ventilation systems.
        Lindab strengthened its sales and production of
ventilation products in the UK by announcing the acquisition of
Birmingham-based HAS-Vent in October last year.
    At the time of the deal announcement, HAS-Vent had 10
branches in the UK, some in locations where Lindab did not have
operations.
    The CMA said the companies can respond to its provisional
findings by Sept. 12, and that its final report is due by Oct.
17.

 (Reporting by Aby Jose Koilparambil in Bengaluru; Editing by
Mrigank Dhaniwala)
 ((abyjose.koilparambil@thomsonreuters.com))