UK competition authorities investigate Grieg Shetland, Scottish Sea Farms deal

The United Kingdom's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating the proposed acquisition of Grieg Seafood's Shetland operations by Scottish Sea Farms, looking at whether the deal "lessens competition" in the UK market.

In June, Scottish Sea Farms signed a share purchase agreement to acquire 100 percent of the shares in Grieg Seafood Hjaltland UK -- the parent company of Grieg Seafood's Shetland business -- for £164 million ($227 million/€190 million).

Scottish Sea Farms – which is co-owned 50/50 by Leroy Seafood Group and SalMar – said the move will allow it to "deliver optimal biological performance and help meet rising demand for premium quality, Scottish-grown salmon."