Woolworths Limited - proposed acquisition of two Bells Liquor outlets in Albany
Type of assessment
Informal Review
Reference
29745
Acquirer(s)
Woolworths Limited
Target(s)
two Bells Liquor outlets in Albany
Industry
Packaged liquor
Outcome of assessment
Not opposed
Total review days *
26
Commenced public review
17th December 2007
Date completed
25th January 2008
Market definition
The market considered by the ACCC was the market for the retail sale of liquor for off-premises consumption. The geographic scope of this market was assessed within a 3-5km radius surrounding both Bells liquor stores in York Street and Hardie Street, Albany, Western Australia.
The other relevant market considered was the Western Australian market for the wholesale supply of packaged liquor for subsequent sale in the retail market for off-premises consumption.
Competition analysis
In the local markets for the retail sale of liquor, the ACCC considered that the proposed acquisition would be unlikely to result in a substantial lessening of competition. Among other things, the ACCC took into account the existence of other competitors in the local markets which would be likely to continue to competitively constrain Woolworths post-acquisition.
With regard to the wholesale market, the ACCC considered that the proposed acquisition was unlikely to significantly affect the market share or buying power of Woolworths or the wholesaler which currently supplies the target stores.
Review timeline
Date
Event
17th December 2007
ACCC commenced review under the Merger Review Process Guidelines.
18th January 2008
Closing date for submissions from interested parties.
25th January 2008
ACCC announced it would not oppose the proposed acquisition.
* Total Review days = Total business days less public holidays and time during which the review was suspended.
