France: Regulator to study Casino-Monoprix Dea
The deal was expected to be completed by end-October 2013, but the regulator has now stepped in over “serious concerns”. Casino will gain full control over 400 Monoprix outlets in France, and the authority said this “threatens to strengthen the position of Casino in some Paris shopping areas where stores under the Monoprix or Monop banners are located near stores under the Casino group banners”.
The authority has now launched an in-depth investigation, termed as ‘phase two’, which it said should take 65 working days (although it could be extended if necessary). Casino has responded coolly to the announcement, saying the probe was a “required step”, which it expects to be completed by summer.
Source: kamcity.com
