Press Release: Mergers: Commission opens in-depth investigation into proposed merger between Caterpillar and MWM

The European Commission has opened an in-depth investigation under the EU Merger Regulation into the planned acquisition of sole control of MWM Holding GmbH of Germany by Caterpillar Inc. of the US, both active in the commercialisation of reciprocating engine generator sets (“gensets”), which are used for power generation. The Commission’s initial market investigation indicated potential competition concerns with respect to gas-fuelled gensets.

The decision to open an in-depth inquiry does not prejudge the final result of the investigation. The Commission now has 90 working days, until 16 September 2011, to take a final decision on whether the transaction would reduce effective competition in the European Economic Area (EEA).