Saudi Arabia Buys Stake in Heathrow, UK Watchdog Probes Branded Goods Pricing

The Competition & Markets Authority finds suppliers have increased prices more than their costs, plans to investigate supermarket loyalty schemes.

Saudi Arabia has purchased a 10% stake in Heathrow Airport, with Spanish infrastructure giant Ferrovial selling its 25% holding to the Saudi Public Investment Fund and Paris-based Ardian.
The UK's Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) has found that suppliers of branded goods such as infant formula, baked beans, mayonnaise, and pet food have increased prices more than their costs, contributing to higher food price inflation.
Despite price hikes, these companies are making less profit overall as more customers switch to cheaper, own-brand alternatives.
The CMA will launch an investigation into supermarket loyalty schemes, including Tesco's Clubcard and Sainsbury's Nectar cards, in January next year.
Concerns have been raised about the baby formula market, with prices rising by 25% over the last two years and limited availability of own-brand alternatives.