BELGIUM: Ahold-Delhaize merger cleared by local Competition Authority | Progresiv
Ahold and Delhaize have received regulatory clearance for their proposed merger from the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA), subject to certain conditions. This clearance marks the completion of competition approval in Europe. 
Under the conditions set forth by the BCA, both retailers will be required to divest a limited number of stores to address competition concerns. However, the plan excludes any of Delhaize's integrated stores.
The divestment includes eight Albert Heijn stores and five Delhaize franchised stores (three existing Proxy and two existing AD Delhaize stores).
Until the BCA's conditions are met, the Albert Heijn and Delhaize stores in Belgium will continue to operate separately.
Both retailers will also be required to divest a defined number of future store projects.
A few days prior to the announcement, shareholders at both companies approved the merger. The transaction is expected to be completed in mid-2016. (www.kantarretailiq.com)
