Vending

Coca-Cola HBC's Irish vending deal under scrutiny

Photo: Cagkan - stock.adobe.com

September 11, 2024

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has announced a full-scale investigation into Coca-Cola HBG's proposed acquisition of BDS Vending Solutions, according to a report from the Irish Times.

The deal, estimated to be valued in the millions of euros, could potentially lead to a substantial reduction in competition within the Irish vending machine market, according to the news outlet.

"Following a preliminary examination, the CCPC has now decided that a full phase two investigation is needed to establish whether the purchase will result in a substantial lessening of competition in the state," a CCPC representative told the news outlet.

BDS Vending is a Irish food and drink vending services company with a fleet of approximately 2,000 machines. The acquisition by Coca-Cola HBG, a beverage company, could potentially consolidate the industry and limit consumer choice.