UK OFT accepts undertakings in Berkshire newspaper merger

The OFT has cleared the completed asset acquisition by Dunfermline Press Limited (DPL) of the Berkshire regional newspapers (BRN) business from Trinity Mirror plc subject to divestments. Pre-merger the parties overlapped in the publication of weekly local newspapers and the provision of advertising space in local newspapers in Slough, Windsor and some smaller nearby towns. The main overlap came from BRN's Express series (weekly free) and DPL's Observer (weekly paid for) and Midweek Observer (weekly free). The OFT was particularly concerned that the merged entity would have significant latitude to increase cover prices and/or advertising rates, and reduce circulation areas. In lieu of reference to the Competition Commission, the OFT has accepted a customised divestment package offered by DPL comprising a sale of all editions of the Express series to Baylis, the owner of Maidenhead Advertiser, apart from the Maidenhead edition, which DPL will retain.

Alan Overd and Vicki Mertzanidou of CRA's London office assisted DPL throughout the OFT proceedings.

See OFT Decision

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