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ARTICLE · 09 DECEMBER 2024

Three Is The Magic Number: CMA Approves Vodafone/Three Merger

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The CMA has cleared, with undertakings, the proposed merger between Vodafone and Three. The CMA conducted an in-depth Phase 2 review of the merger and, unusually, accepted behavioural undertakings from the merging parties.

United KingdomAntitrust/Competition Law
Emma Radcliffe
Emma Radcliffe
Rachel Carter
Rachel Carter
Greg Dowell
Greg Dowell

The CMA has cleared, with undertakings, the proposed merger between Vodafone and Three. The CMA conducted an in-depth Phase 2 review of the merger and, unusually, accepted behavioural undertakings from the merging parties. In this article we explore the CMA's decision and its potential implications for UK merger control.

Background

Vodafone Group Plc (Vodafone) is a British multinational telecoms company, which offers a wide range of services, including mobile and fixed-line telephony, broadband, and digital television. Hutchison 3G UK Limited, known as Three, is the UK subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings (CK Hutchison), and offers mobile telecoms and internet services in the UK.

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