Press Release: Mergers: Commission approves takeover of Austrian retail chain ADEG by REWE Group, subject to conditions

The European Commission approved under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed takeover of ADEG of Austria by the German REWE Group, subject to conditions. Both parties are active on the Austrian retail and wholesale markets for everyday consumer goods. The Commission was concerned that the strength of the combined company in certain Austrian regions could lead to higher prices for everyday consumer goods in Austria. During the Commission's preliminary investigation REWE proposed to divest outlets in the relevant regions. These commitments removed the Commission's concerns and it therefore concluded that the transaction would not significantly impede effective competition in the European Economic Area (EEA) or any substantial part of it.