Transpacific Industries Group Ltd - proposed acquisition of land and certain associated assets located at Unanderra (NSW) from Veolia Environmental Services
Type of assessment
Informal Review
Reference
41830
Acquirer(s)
Transpacific Industries Group Ltd
Target(s)
Land and assets at Unanderra from Veolia Environmental Services
Industry
Waste management
Summary
On 16 July 2010, the ACCC decided not to oppose the acquisition by Transpacific of land and assets at Unanderra from Veolia Environmental Services.
Outcome of assessment
Not opposed
Total review days *
21
Commenced public review
18th June 2010
Date completed
16th July 2010
Market definition
The ACCC considered this matter in the context of the following relevant markets
- a regional NSW (encompassing at least Unanderra and Sydney) market for the supply of liquid and hazardous waste treatment and disposal services;
- a regional NSW (encompassing at least Unanderra and Sydney) market for the collection of commercial solid waste; and
- a regional NSW (encompassing at least Unanderra and Sydney) for the treatment of soil.
The ACCC did not form a concluded view on market definition in this matter, as competition concerns were unlikely to arise irrespective of the market definition adopted.
Competition analysis
The ACCC determined that the acquisition was not likely to result in a substantial lessening of competition in the relevant markets. The main factors that informed this view included that:
In relation to the supply of liquid and hazardous waste treatment, it was found that the assets to be acquired were currently mothballed, and accordingly, the acquisition was unlikely to have a significant impact on competition in this market.
In relation to the collection of commercial solid waste, it was found that there were a number of exisiting competitors who would provide a competitive constraint and the potential for operators with significant presence to enter this market.
In relation to the treatment of soil, it was found that there were a range of local and national competitors with a local presence in this area of activity and access to landfill sites, which would provide a competitive constraint on the merged firm post-acquisition.
Review timeline
Date
Event
18th June 2010
ACCC commenced review under the Merger Review Process Guidelines. Market inquiries commenced.
2nd July 2010
Closing date for submissions from interested parties.
16th July 2010
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.
