This step brings together the results from the previous steps and leads into the assessment of merger, pricing, and vertical issues. The creation or strengthening of the market power through merger is a common concern. Definition of the relevant market is crucial, as is consideration of the effects of merger on all aspects of competition, and not just price. In particular, geographical location can be an important motive for merger in retailing. Our report sets out the issues involved in these various pricing strategies and discusses possible remedies.
Vertical restraints are very important between retailers and manufacturers.
There is unlikely to be any major concern unless they have a major negative effect on horizontal competition either upstream or downstream. Own-brand competition is also rising in importance. You are welcome to print off these pages, link to them, or reproduce them so long as you do not do so for financial gain or distort the information contained here. We welcome your comments on any aspect of this service. If you wish to order any of the publications mentioned on these pages, please use the e-mail form.