Britain’s competition watchdog has launched an investigation into the proposed £2.5bn merger between Barratt Developments and Redrow.
The inquiry aims to determine whether the merger could lead to a significant reduction in competition in various sectors across the country.
The merger, which would create a company capable of building approximately 22,000 homes annually, has drawn scrutiny from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). This comes amid broader concerns about potential collusion within the industry, with the CMA already investigating suspected illegal information sharing among several leading housebuilders.
In addition to Barratt Developments and Redrow, the CMA’s inquiries extend to other major players including Bellway, Berkeley, Bloor Homes, Persimmon, Taylor Wimpey, and Vistry. The regulator is seeking comments from interested parties on the proposed acquisition until April 2nd, marking the beginning of the next phase of its investigation.
