NMa Approves Takeover of Laurus Branches by LIDL

The Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa) has approved the takeover by the LIDL Nederland GmbH of approximately 50 supermarket branches operating under the Basismarkt [Basic Market] formula of Laurus Nederland B.V. . After an investigation, NMa reached the conclusion that it is not plausible that a dominant position will arise or be strengthened as a result of this takeover in the light of the joint market share of the parties involved. The market share of LIDL on both the markets for the sale of daily consumer goods to supermarkets and the procurement of these goods at the national level is limited. Various other large and small players are active on both markets. If the regional or local competitive position of supermarkets is also taken into account, consumers still have sufficient choice