Perth Voice Interactive

AUSTRALIA’S competition watchdog has ruled Coles’ proposed takeover of the Supa IGA in Dianella is not anti-competitive.

If the takeover goes ahead—which now seems certain—Coles will own half the 10 supermarkets within 3km of the store. The Dianella store was one of four WA Supa IGAs in Coles’ sights to be scrutinised by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

“The ACCC considered that in the absence of the proposed acquisition…no alternative purchasers were likely to acquire the store before the expiry of the lease; and no other independent supermarket was likely to be established at the target site once Progressive’s existing lease expired.” The ACCC deemed none of the proposed takeovers would “substantially lessen competition”.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK