CCPC outlines competition concerns in preliminary assessment of Circle K/Pelco deal
April 8, 2025
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has issued a preliminary assessment to the parties involved in the proposed acquisition of Pelco Holdings Limited by Ard Services Limited, a subsidiary of Circle K Ireland Holding Limited (M/24/042).
The assessment sets out the CCPC’s preliminary concerns on how the proposed acquisition could reduce competition in the retail motor fuel sector. As this is a preliminary assessment and not a final determination, the parties involved now have the right to respond in writing, make oral submissions and get access to the CCPC’s file.
Background
Pelco and Circle K are both active in the retail sale of motor fuels and the operation of forecourt convenience stores in Ireland. Pelco operates thirteen service stations, mainly in the greater Dublin region, nine of which are included in the merger.
The proposed purchase was notified to the CCPC in July 2024. Following a preliminary examination, the CCPC decided an in-depth investigation was needed to establish whether the proposed deal would result in a substantial lessening of competition in the State.
Under competition law, the CCPC must assess certain mergers and acquisitions in order to prevent harmful effects on competition. In doing so, the CCPC considers the potential impact of mergers and acquisitions on consumers, such as changes to price, consumer choice, quality and innovation.
Timeline
Full details of the process and timelines that apply following the issuing of an assessment are set out in the merger review timelines on the CCPC’s Mergers and Acquisitions Procedures webpage. In accordance with the merger review timelines, it is expected that the full investigation will conclude no later than July 2025. At that time, the outcome of the CCPC’s investigation will be published on ccpc.ie. A full non-confidential version of the CCPC’s determination will subsequently be published. As the investigation remains open, no further information can be provided at this time.
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