The Commerce Commission has received an application from PPCS Limited (PPCS) to acquire the remainder of the shares in Venison Rotorua Limited (VRL). Presently, PPCS owns 19.9% of the shares of VRL.

PPCS is a farmer co-operative based in Dunedin, and is involved in the processing and marketing of sheepmeat, beef, venison and associated products.

VRL was incorporated in June 2001 when it acquired Mair Venison Limited's Rotorua deer processing facility. VRL is based in Rotorua and is involved in the procurement and processing of venison.

In considering this application, the Commission's role is to determine whether the proposed acquisition has the effect of substantially lessening competition in a New Zealand market.

A public version of the application will shortly be available on the Commission's website, www.comcom.govt.nz. (select Public Registers)