Unilever, McCormick food deal may weaken UK competition, watchdog says
MKC•Britain’s competition watchdog said Unilever’s $65 billion deal to merge its foods business with McCormick could weaken competition in the UK. It may refer the deal for an in-depth investigation unless the companies offer remedies by November 18.
1. Watchdog raises concerns
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority said it would refer the deal to an in-depth investigation unless Unilever and McCormick offer remedies addressing its competition concerns before the November 18 deadline. Unilever announced the merger in March; its brands include Hellmann’s and Knorr, while McCormick makes Frank’s RedHot and French’s mustard.
