@Cynric wrote:
@HappyNomad Depending on just how deep the merger ends-up they can cut-down on the advertising budget 😁
And duplication in staffing, premises, equipment etc etc etc… I understand the commercial reasons for and the outcomes, (whether desired or actual) of mergers I don't understand how mergers within a smallish pool of network operators / service providers - from six to three - can be of any benefit to the consumer.
The proposed Sainsbury/Asda merger was blocked by the CMA because:
“It would reduce competition in supermarkets and online grocery shopping and at the companies' petrol stations.”
"We think that is likely to lead to higher prices or other changes which would be unwelcome to shoppers." [Stuart McIntosh, chair of the CMA's inquiry group]
