Clifford Hallam Healthcare Pty Ltd - proposed acquisition of Cottman Australia Pty Ltd
Type of assessment
Informal Review
Reference
30990
Acquirer(s)
Clifford Hallam Healthcare Pty Ltd
Target(s)
Cottman Australia Pty Ltd
Industry
Pharmaceuticals and medical consumables
Outcome of assessment
Not opposed
Total review days *
16
Commenced public review
1st February 2008
Date completed
27th February 2008
Market definition
The ACCC considered the proposed acquisition in the context of the Western Australian, South Australian, Northern Territory and Victorian markets for the distribution of pharmaceuticals and medical consumable products to non-retail customers (such as hospitals and medical centres).
Competition analysis
The ACCC considered that the proposed acquisition was unlikely to result in a substantial lessening of competition in any market due to:
- the effective competitive constraint provided by alternative wholesalers;
- the ability of purchasing authorities, buying groups and manufacturers to establish in-house warehousing and distribution or sponsor expansion by an existing wholesaler of pharmaceuticals and/or medical consumable products; and
- the existence of potential entrants to the SA, WA, NT and Victorian markets that already have some of the expertise and/or assets required.
Review timeline
Date
Event
1st February 2008
ACCC commenced review under the Merger Review Process Guidelines. Market inquiries commenced.
5th February 2008
ACCC requested further information from Clifford Hallam Healthcare. ACCC timeline suspended.
8th February 2008
ACCC received further information from Clifford Hallam Healthcare. ACCC timeline recommenced.
15th February 2008
Closing date for submissions from interested parties.
27th February 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.
