Tesco has asked the Competition and Markets Authority to fast-track the investigation into its £3.7bn merger with wholesaler Booker.
The CMA started the first phase of its investigation into whether the deal would limit competition and choice on 30 May and is expected to reach a decision on whether to carry out a full investigation by 25 July.
However, Tesco has asked the regulator to speed up the process and make an early decision to move to the more detailed second phase within the next two weeks.
The merger, announced in January, drew concerns from the regulator because Tesco’s 3,500 shops and Booker’s 4,500 shops – which include brands such as Premier, Londis and Budgens – would account for nearly 28% of the UK market.
Tesco argued that an expanded network of up to 8,000 locations would “offer a more innovative offer for customers and consumers in a larger and faster-growing market”.
If the merger completes, Booker’s shareholders will own about 16% of the company.
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