CONVATEC’S PROPOSED ACQUISITION OF ACORDIS SPECIALITY FIBRES

Competition Commission invites evidence

The OFT has asked the Competition Commission (CC) to look into the proposed acquisition by ConvaTec Limited (CTL) of Acordis Speciality Fibres Limited (ASF).

The CC has been asked to consider whether the proposed acquisition may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods and services.

Both companies are active in the advanced wound care treatment sector. CTL and ASF are the two leading producers and suppliers of alginate fibre in the UK; CTL is also a leading producer and supplier of alginate dressings. ASF is in addition a producer of 'Hydrocel' which CTL uses in the production of an advanced wound care dressing, 'Aquacel'.

The CC is required to publish its report by 28 July 2004. The CC would like to hear from all interested parties, in writing, by 5 March 2004. To submit evidence, please write to:

Inquiry Secretary (ConvaTec/Acordis)
Competition Commission
New Court
48 Carey Street
LONDON
WC2A 2JT

Or email:

Notes for editors

The Enterprise Act 2002 empowers the OFT to refer to the CC completed or proposed mergers for investigation and report which create or enhance a 25 per cent share of supply in the UK (or a substantial part thereof) or where the UK turnover associated with the enterprise being acquired is over £70 million (see OFT Press Release PN 27/04).
The CC has a 24-week period in which it is required to publish its report, which may be extended by no more than eight weeks if it considers that there are special reasons why the report cannot be published within that period.
Further information on the CC and its procedures, including its policy on the provision of information and the disclosure of evidence, can be obtained from its web site at: http://www.competition-commission.org.uk
Enquiries should be directed to Francis Royle, Chief Press Officer or Rory Taylor on Tel: 020 7271 0242 or by email /