Linde AG - completed acquisition of Auscom Holdings Pty Limited
Type of assessment
Informal Review
Reference
32994
Acquirer(s)
Linde AG
Target(s)
Auscom Holdings Pty Limited
Industry
Industrial gas
Summary
Linde AG, through its subsidiary BOC Ltd, has acquired from AGL Energy Ltd its 50% shareholding in Auscom Holdings Pty Ltd
Outcome of assessment
Not opposed
Total review days *
11
Commenced public review
2nd October 2008
Date completed
16th October 2008
Market definition
The ACCC considered the competitive effects of the completed acquisition in the context of state based markets for the production, supply, wholesale and retail of:
- traditional LPG; and
- autogas.
Competition analysis
The ACCC considered that the completed acquisition was unlikely to substantially lessen competition in the relevant markets. Factors informing this conclusion included:
- that the completed acquisition was unlikely to change the competitive dynamic that existed pre-acquisition;
- that there were strong incentives post-acquisition to maintain supply to downstream competitors; and
- competitors existed that would continue to provide alternative supply options for customers.
Review timeline
Date
Event
2nd October 2008
Linde AG acquired the remaining 50% interest in Auscom Holdings Pty Ltd.
2nd October 2008
ACCC commenced review under the Merger Review Process Guidelines.
15th October 2008
Closing date for submissions from interested parties.
16th October 2008
ACCC announced it would not oppose the acquisition.
* Total Review days = Total business days less public holidays and time during which the review was suspended.
