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Agri-business deal faces full competition probe

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has decided to carry out a full investigation into a proposed acquisition in the agri-business sector.

The deal involves Aurivo Consumer Foods Limited, a subsidiary of Aurivo Co-operative Society Limited, and Arrabawn Co-Operative Society Limited.

Aurivo is proposing to acquire parts of Arrabawn’s business linked to the supply of branded and unbranded liquid milk, cream and butter products.

Dairy products

Both co-ops are involved in the sale of dairy products, food ingredients and animal-feed products, while both also operate a number of retail outlets that sell agricultural products.

After an extended preliminary investigation, which began in February 2023, the competition watchdog has decided that it needs to carry out a full investigation to establish if the proposed deal could lead to a substantial lessening of competition in the State.