The Commerce Commission has cleared Lion Nathan Limited to acquire up to 100% of the shares and/or assets of Independent Liquor (NZ) Limited.
Commission Chair Paula Rebstock said that the Commission was satisfied that the proposed acquisition would not have, or would not be likely to have, the effect of substantially lessening competition in any of the relevant markets.
Lion Nathan manufactures and distributes a range of alcoholic beverages in both Australia and New Zealand. Lion Nathan subsidiaries include: New Zealand Breweries, which primarily brews beer; and Lion Nathan Wines and Spirits, which primarily distributes wine, spirits and ready-to-drink (RTD) spirit brands under licensing agreements. Lion Nathan also operates the 'Liquor King' chain of retail stores.
Independent Liquor also supplies a range of alcoholic beverages. Independent Liquor primarily manufactures a range of RTD spirit brands such as Purple Goanna, KGB, Woodstock Bourbon and Cola, and the Vodka Cruiser range. Independent also supplies a number of beer, wine and spirit brands.
A public version of the written decision will be available shortly under the Clearances Register.
