The acquisition of Ögurvík ehf. by HB Granda hf.

The Competition Authority has been reviewing the acquisition of Ögurvík ehf. by HB Grandi hf. The merger notification states that HB Grandi operates four icefish trawlers, two freezer trawlers and two pelagic vessels.  Processing of both bottom-fish and pelagic fish takes place there, and there is also bottom-fish processing in Reykjavík and Vopnafjörður, as well as some processing on board the company's freezer trawlers. The company operates a fish processing plant in Vopnafjörður which specialises in the processing of pelagic fish, as well as a pelagic processing plant in Akranes where capelin roe is processed. It is also stated that Ögurvík operates one freezer trawler for bottom fishing and that the processing of the catch takes place on board. It does not appear that the merger will lead to the creation or strengthening of a dominant position, or otherwise significantly distort competition, in contravention of Article 17(c) of the Competition Act. In light of this and having regard to the evidence in the case, the Competition Authority considers that the acquisition by HB Granda of 100% shares in Ögurvík does not provide grounds for further action regarding the merger in question under Article 17 of the Competition Act.