Assessments and requirements when merging businesses

When you decide to merge businesses, through takeover, acquisition or a joint venture, you may be reducing competition in the market(s) in which you operate. If it is found that your merger will substantially lessen competition it may be prohibited or you may have conditions imposed upon you.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is responsible for investigating mergers in the UK. Mergers are only investigated if they meet certain criteria. If you are involved in a merger of any size, you will need legal advice.

Under the National Security and Investment Act (NSI Act), the UK government can also investigate and, if necessary, intervene in investments, takeovers and other acquisitions that could potentially harm the UK's national security. 

This guide highlights how to go about notifying authorities about a merger. It also looks at CMA considerations during merger assessment and decisions.