Unimin Australia Limited - acquisition of Hyrock Pty Limited, Westcal Pty Limited
Type of assessment
Informal Review
Reference
35439
Acquirer(s)
Unimin Australia Limited
Target(s)
Hyrock Pty Limited Westcal Pty Limited
Industry
Limestone and Lime Production business
Summary
Unimin Australia Limited has acquired the limestone and lime production businesses operated by Hyrock Pty Ltd and Westcal Pty Ltd (collectively Hyrock).
Outcome of assessment
Not opposed
Total review days *
53
Commenced public review
7th January 2009
Date completed
24th March 2009
Market definition
The ACCC considered the acquisition in the context of the market for the manufacturing and distribution of quicklime and hydrated lime (lime) in New South Wales. The ACCC noted the strong regional character to competition in the relevant market.
The ACCC noted that the competition analysis in this review would be unchanged by the precise market delineation.
Competition analysis
The ACCC formed the view that the acquisition was unlikely to substantially lessen competition in the relevant market due to the existence of a significantly larger supplier which would continue to constrain the merged firm from attempting to unilaterally exercise market power in the relevant market.
The ACCC noted that the acquisition was unlikely to have increased the likelihood of coordinated conduct in the relevant market between the merged firm and the remaining competitor.
Review timeline
Date
Event
5th January 2009
The acquisition was completed.
7th January 2009
ACCC commenced review under the Merger Review Process Guidelines.
14th January 2009
Closing date for submissions from interested parties.
24th March 2009
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.
