CMA to open first phase of probe into Carlsberg's acquisition of Britvic

(Sharecast News) - The Competition and Markets Authority said on Tuesday that it was opening the first phase of an investigation into Danish brewer Carlsberg's £3.3n acquisition of Britvic. The CMA said it would consider whether the deal would result in a "substantial lessening" of competition within any market or markets in the UK for goods or services.

The competition watchdog said it was issuing a preliminary "invitation to comment" to allow interested parties to submit any initial views on the impact the deal could have on competition.

"This invitation to comment is the first part of the CMA's information-gathering process, in advance of the CMA's formal investigation starting," it said.

Britvic agreed to the deal in July, having rejected two previous bids from Carlsberg. Under the terms of the acquisition, Britvic shareholders will get £13.15 a share, including a special dividend of 25p a share.