Fonterra applies to acquire New Zealand Dairies

The Commission has received an application from Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited (Fonterra) seeking clearance to acquire the dairy processing assets of New Zealand Dairies Limited (NZDL).

NZDL owns a milk powder processing plant in Studholme, near Waimate, and until recently has been collecting raw milk from farmers in the South Canterbury and North Otago regions. On 17 May 2012, NZDL was placed in receivership.

In considering the application, the Commission’s role is to determine whether the acquisition has the effect of substantially lessening competition in any market. A public version of the application is available on the Commission’s website at www.comcom.govt.nz/clearances-register