UK watchdog flags Northern Ireland concerns in AB Foods-Hovis deal

The British watchdog said Associated British Foods' acquisition of Hovis raises competition concerns in Northern Ireland while provisionally clearing the deal in Great Britain after finding ABF's Allied Bakeries would otherwise close. The split outcome creates regulatory risk for the transaction in Northern Ireland and could require remedies or further review despite provisional clearance in Great Britain.

Analysis

The British watchdog said Associated British Foods' acquisition of Hovis raises competition concerns in Northern Ireland while provisionally clearing the deal in Great Britain after finding ABF's Allied Bakeries would otherwise close. The split outcome creates regulatory risk for the transaction in Northern Ireland and could require remedies or further review despite provisional clearance in Great Britain.