CMA probes TravelSupermarket-Icelolly merger

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced on Friday it is investigating the anticipated merger between TravelSupermarket and Icelolly Marketing Limited.

Chester-based price comparison website Moneysupermarket Group said on May 13 it agreed to combine its TravelSupermarket business (TSM) with Leeds-based Icelolly Marketing Limited (Icelolly.com) to enable “stronger and broader travel comparison services across both brands.”

On Friday, the CMA said it 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 merger provisions of the Enterprise Act 2002 and, if so, 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.”

The CMA has invited comments on the transaction from any interested party by July 9.