Elkjøp allowed to acquire Eplehuset

The Norwegian Competition Authority has today informed the companies that Elkjøp may proceed with its acquisition of Eplehuset.

Elkjøp and Eplehuset both sell Apple products and currently compete in the sale of, among other things, Macs and iPads to consumers through both physical stores and online sales channels. These are important products for many consumers, and the Competition Authority has therefore conducted a thorough review of the transaction. Among other things, the Competition Authority has collected and examined extensive documentation from the parties, their competitors and suppliers, and other relevant players.

On 29 June, the companies were notified that the Competition Authority was considering prohibiting the acquisition. The Competition Authority was concerned that the transaction could significantly weaken competition in the sale of Macs and iPads to consumers. Following this, the Competition Authority has received substantial information from the companies and the Authority carried out further analyses and assessments and has now concluded that there are insufficient grounds to block the acquisition. 

– The Competition Authority oversee competition in the markets, for the benefit of consumers, businesses and the society as a whole. It has therefore been necessary to conduct a thorough assessment of this transaction. We have now concluded that the acquisition will not significantly impede effective competition and it can therefore be completed,” says Director General Mads Magnussen.