UK competition bureau to investigate ABP acquisitions
ABP acquired an abattoir and meat packing plant in June
9 August 2023
1 minute read
By: The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into the acquisition by Anglo Beef Processors UK by Scotbeef Limited's businesses at Longleys Farm, Bridge of Allan, Stirlingshire and Penston Road, Queenslie, Glasgow.
In June, ABP Food Group announced the acquisition of the abattoir and meat packing plant. The two facilities were to become part of the company’s UK meat division which also includes an existing processing facility in Perth, Scotland. At the time of the announcement, the sale was expected to be completed by the end of July 2023.
At the time of the announcement, NFU Scotland released a statement expressing concern.
"Any consolidation in red meat processing risks undermining the healthy competition required in our markets for red meat," said NFU Scotland president Martin Kennedy. "The future of our vibrant live auction ring system is critical to transparency for the primary producer, and this must be maintained in Scotland."
CMA's investigation opened July 29.
ABP is one of Europe’s leading meat processors, supplying fresh and frozen meat products to retailers, and food service providers in the UK and worldwide. ABP employs over 13,000 colleagues across its four divisions: Red Meat, Pet Foods, Renewables and Proteins, with processing facilities in nine countries and a turnover of €5 billion.
