EU-Kommission: Brüssel ermittelt wegen Porta-Übernahme durch XXXLutz
Die geplante Übernahme treibt die Wettbewerbshüter um. Eine vorläufige Untersuchung warnt vor den Folgen für den Wettbewerb in drei EU-Staaten. Das heißt aber nicht, dass der Schritt untersagt wird.
Brussels - The European Commission is investigating potential anti-competitive implications arising from the planned takeover of Porta by the Austrian furniture giant XXXLutz. Initial findings suggest the merger could harm competition in Germany, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, the Brussels authority stated. The EU body noted that both XXXLutz and Porta hold a strong position in the discount furniture market, with many of their stores competing in the same regions for customers.
The Commission fears the loss of competitive pressure could lead to higher prices and reduced choice for consumers. Concerns also arise regarding supply-side risks to markets in Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland. XXXLutz is already a significant customer for furniture manufacturers, with substantial purchasing power.
If Porta's brands become part of XXXLutz, it would eliminate one of the few major alternative purchasers, the EU announcement noted. Consequently, the Commission is now examining whether suppliers would become more dependent on the merged entity.
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