Mauri Pursues Farmers Mill Acquisition Discussing Preliminary Competition Concerns

Deal News | Jun 18, 2025 | EIN

The New Zealand Commerce Commission is assessing the proposed acquisition by George Weston Foods (NZ) Limited, operating as Mauri New Zealand, of wheat milling and storage assets from Farmers Mill Limited. The Commission released a statement of preliminary issues, detailing potential competition concerns and inviting public commentary until July 3, 2025. The decision on the merger is anticipated by August 7, 2025, although this may change depending on the investigation's developments. This merger clearance will only be granted if it is determined that the merger does not substantially lessen market competition.

Sectors

  • Food Production
  • Agriculture
  • Regulatory

Geography

  • New Zealand – The companies involved and the regulatory authority are all based in New Zealand, making it the geographic focus of the article.

Industry

  • Food Production – The proposed acquisition involves wheat milling and storage assets, which are part of the food production sector.
  • Agriculture – The transaction involves agricultural operations through the handling and processing of wheat.
  • Regulatory – The article discusses regulatory actions and the need for clearance from the Commerce Commission regarding the acquisition.

Financials

    Participants

    NameRoleTypeDescription
    George Weston Foods (NZ) LimitedBidding CompanyCompanyGeorge Weston Foods is seeking to acquire the wheat milling and storage assets of Farmers Mill Limited through its trading arm, Mauri New Zealand.
    Farmers Mill LimitedTarget CompanyCompanyFarmers Mill Limited owns the wheat milling and storage assets that are proposed to be acquired by George Weston Foods.
    Commerce CommissionRegulatory BodyGovernmentThe regulatory authority overseeing the competition and market dynamics to determine whether the acquisition should be granted clearance.