Go ahead for merger

22 February 2002

Go ahead for merger

BRUSSELS has approved the merger of Denmarks two biggest slaughter co-ops, Danish Crown and Steff-Houlberg,insofar as its impact outside Denmark is concerned.

The two groups requested approval in the European Economic Area, (comprising the EU plus Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein).

Following a preliminary review, the commission has concluded that any competition concerns are limited to the Danish market. The effects will be particularly felt in the market for live pigs and the sale of fresh pork for human consumption and further processing.

Danish Crown is the largest co-operative slaughterhouse in Denmark with over 20,500 farmer members. Steff-Houlberg is considerably smaller with 2366 farmer members. &#42