The Commerce Commission has received an application from Sigma Company Limited for clearance to acquire Amcal Chemists Marketing Limited (ACML).
Sigma is an Australian company, whose New Zealand subsidiaries are pharmaceutical wholesalers and retailers. Its New Zealand retail subsidiary operates the "Guardian" and "Pharmacycare" pharmacy banner groups and the PPS buying group, which arranges bulk purchases for the independent pharmacies that belong to it.
It already owns the "Amcal" brand name used in New Zealand under license by ACML.
Sigma also owns pharmaceutical wholesalers Russells Pharmaceuticals Limited and Pharmacy Wholesalers Wellington Limited.
ACML is a co-operative company owned by the 86 pharmacies that trade under the "Amcal" banner.
The Commission expects to make its decision by April 6.
Background
The Commerce Act prohibits business acquisitions that result in dominance being acquired or strengthened in any markets. Parties can apply for a clearance, which the Commission will give if it is satisfied that dominance is not acquired or strengthened.
A clearance, if given, protects an acquisition from court action under the Act.
Public copies of Sigma's application are available from reception at the Commission's Wellington office, level 7 Landcorp House, 101 Lambton Quay.
Media contact: Commerce Act Manager Geoff Thorn
Phone work (04) 498 0958
Communications Officer Vincent Cholewa
Phone work (04) 498 0920
Commission media releases can be viewed on its web site www.comcom.govt.nz
