The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened (15 May) investigations into two separate transactions in the transport and motor sectors, announcing initial enforcement orders (IEOs) in both cases.
The first inquiry concerns the completed acquisition of ABVR Holdings Limited by Constellation Developments Limited. Details of the deal remain limited, but the CMA is assessing whether the transaction may lead to a substantial lessening of competition. The investigation was officially launched on 15 May 2025, and the case remains in its early stages.
Separately, the CMA is examining the anticipated acquisition of Macquarie Rotorcraft Limited (MRL) by SMFL LCI Helicopters Limited (SMFLH), a transaction that could reshape parts of the UK helicopter leasing market. An initial enforcement order was issued on 15 May 2025 to prevent the parties from integrating their businesses while the CMA conducts its Phase 1 review. The regulator is currently inviting comments from interested third parties ahead of the formal launch of the merger inquiry.
Both cases remain open, with statutory timelines for Phase 1 decisions yet to be confirmed. The CMA’s enforcement orders, made under section 72(2) of the Enterprise Act 2002, are designed to preserve the independence of the merging businesses during the review process.
The developments reflect the CMA’s continued scrutiny of transactions with potential implications for UK markets, even in cases where deals are completed or only anticipated.
Source: https://www.gov.uk/cma-cases/constellation-developments-limited-slash-abvr-holdings-limited
and https://www.gov.uk/cma-cases/smflh-slash-mrl-merger-inquiry
