Summary

Woolworths Limited proposes to acquire the takeaway packaged liquor business (including liquor licence) of Northgate Cellars in Adelaide.

Market definition

The ACCC considers that there are two relevant markets:
-the retail market for takeaway packaged liquor in Northgate and surrounding areas, and
-the South Australian wholesale market for the supply of liquor for sale in the retail market for takeaway packaged liquor.

Competition analysis

The ACCC considers that the proposed acquisition is unlikely to result in a substantial lessening of competition in any relevant market. The ACCC concluded that the merged entity will be constrained by numerous competitors in the retail market for takeaway packaged liquor in Lavington and surrounding areas. In relation to the wholesale market, the ACCC considered that the increase in the volume of Woolworths Limited's liquor purchases is unlikely to be significant enough to lead to a substantial lessening of competition.

Merger type

Horizontal

Initiation

Parties