Carlsberg’s takeover of Britvic cleared by regulator

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Green light: Carlsberg's £3.3bn takeover of Britvic cleared by regulator (©Britvic)

Carlsberg’s £3.3bn takeover of Britvic will complete next month after being cleared by Britain’s competition regulator.

The Danish brewer struck a deal to acquire the Hertfordshire-based soft drinks producer earlier this year.

Following its decision in September to launch an initial probe, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) confirmed on Tuesday 17 December that it would not be referring the tie-up for a full in-depth investigation.

Regulatory clearances

Set to complete in January next year, the deal will see Carlsberg take over Britvic’s bottling agreement with PepsiCo.

The brewer said it intended to create a single integrated beverage company in the UK, which will be named Carlsberg Britvic, following completion of the acquisition.

A spokesperson for Carlsberg said: “We’re delighted to have received all necessary regulatory clearances and, subject to the satisfaction of the Court, we look forward to completing the transaction in January 2025.

World-class service

“We believe the combination of Carlsberg and Britvic will create a highly attractive multi-beverage supplier in the UK, with an efficient supply chain and distribution network that provides our customers with a portfolio of market leading brands and world-class service.”

Britvic, which also makes J20 and Tango, initially rejected the multi-billion-pound bid, however, the board unanimously recommended shareholders voted in favour of the deal at a general meeting in July.

The procurement is expected to enhance Carlsberg’s top and bottom line growth in western Europe and significantly increase the level of cash flow generated in the region.