Overview
- The Autoriteit Consument & Markt refused to approve Zwanenberg’s takeover of Unox, saying the combined firm would be nearly the only large supplier of smoked and cooked sausages and would hold a strong position in shelf-stable soups.
- The ACM said that reduced supplier choice would let Zwanenberg demand higher wholesale prices from supermarket chains, a change that could translate into higher food prices for consumers.
- Zwanenberg immediately rejected the regulator’s market definitions, argued that A-brands and private labels are different markets, and said there are enough international suppliers and strong supermarket bargaining power to prevent price rises; the company said it is considering an appeal.
- Unilever said it was very disappointed and will study the ACM ruling before deciding next steps, leaving the blocked sale legally unresolved for now.
- The decision closes a review that began after Unilever announced the sale in December 2024 and intensified when the ACM extended its investigation in June 2025, and it could prompt a legal challenge or renewed talks over remedies.