The Commerce Commission has received an application from Gardner Smith Ltd, through its wholly owned subsidiary Pacific Terminals Ltd (PTL), to acquire the shares of Bulk Storage Terminals Limited (BST), and all the business of BST in liquid bulk storage terminals at regional ports in New Zealand.

PTL is a provider of bulk liquid storage and handling services, with facilities in Auckland, New Plymouth, Napier, Timaru and Bluff.

BST is a subsidiary of Burns Philp (New Zealand) Ltd, and specialises in port-side bulk storage and handling of tallow and vegetable oils as well as hazardous chemicals. It has facilities in Mt Maunganui, New Plymouth and Wellington, and a 50% interest in a bulk liquid storage terminal in Auckland.

In considering the application under the Commerce Act, the Commission's role is to determine whether the merger has the effect of substantially lessening competition in a market.

A public version of PTL's application is available on request from the Commerce Commission. Please contact Catherine Best, (04) 924 3654.

Media contact: Richard Braae, Manager, Market Structure Group

Phone work (04) 924 3650

Jackie Maitland, Communications Manager Phone work (04) 924 3708, mobile 029 924 3708

Commission media releases can be viewed on its web site www.comcom.govt.nz