Dutch ACM blocks Unilever sale of Unox/Zwan to Zwanenberg over competition concerns

The Dutch competition authority (ACM) has prohibited Unilever from selling its Unox and Zwan brands to Zwanenberg, citing that the acquisition would create a near-monopoly in Dutch supermarkets for these products and a dominant position in canned soups with 60-85% market share. ACM president Martijn Snoep warned of reduced choice and potential price increases for consumers, especially amid food price concerns. Zwanenberg's proposed remedies, including divesting part of its production capacity, were deemed insufficient. This decision blocks a significant consolidation in the Dutch food market and may signal stricter antitrust enforcement in the sector.

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