Knorr Bremse Asia Pacific (Holdings) Limited - proposed acquisition of Sigma Transit Systems Pty Limited

Market definition

The ACCC did not consider it necessary to reach a concluded view in relation to market definition in this matter. However, in assessing the proposed acquisition, the ACCC considered the likely impact on national markets for the design, manufacture and supply of the following systems used in rolling stock and heavy vehicles:

- brakes
- doors
- HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning)

The ACCC also considered the likely impact on markets for the supply of after-market services in relation to each of the above products.

Competition analysis

The ACCC formed the view that the proposed acquisition was unlikely to result in a substantial lessening of competition in any relevant market for the following reasons:

- The existing presence of Knorr Bremse in Australia for the supply of HVAC products is limited to that of a potential supplier (through Merak) and post-acquisition there would remain several competing suppliers of HVAC products which would be likely to constrain the merged entity.

- The ability of customers to source the various relevant products individually and separately, the large number of alternative suppliers (both domestic and international) and the ability of other suppliers to offer similar bundles or make joint tenders, are likely to ensure that competitors to the merged entity are not foreclosed as a result of the proposed acquisition.