UK Competition Watchdog Probes LN-Gaiety MCD Productions Merger

Conal McSweeney – Electric Picnic
The popular Irish festival is part of LN-Gaiety

Following an investigation by the Irish competition authority CCPC, the UK’s watchdog CMA has also launched an investigation into the anticipated acquisition of MCD Productions by LN-Gaiety.

CMA is considering whether it is or may be the case that this transaction, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a “relevant merger situation” under the UK’s Enterprise Act 2002, according to the announcement. 

If it does, CMA will probe “whether the creation of that situation may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods or services.”

Both LN-Gaiety Holdings Limited and MCD Productions Unlimited Company have been informed of the investigation.

CMA expects to have a decision ready by July 11, at which point it may launch a second phase investigation or come to a conclusion about the merger.

LN-Gaiety Holdings Limited, the UK incorporated joint venture between Live Nation UK Limited and Gaiety Investments, announced the acquisition of Irish promoter MCD Productions in August 2018.