The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has directed Lindab, a supplier of circular ducts and fittings for ventilation systems, to sell 2 sites in Nottingham and Stoke-on-Trent due to concerns over decreased competition and potential price increases for installers in those areas.

The CMA's inquiry, which involved analyzing internal documents and input from industry stakeholders, revealed that competition for circular ducts and fittings operates at a local level, leading to the conclusion that the Lindab-HAS-Vent deal could harm competition in the affected regions.

To address the competition issues, Lindab is mandated to sell 1 site in each impacted area, with all 4 sites in Nottingham and Stoke-on-Trent being put up for sale to attract a wide range of potential buyers, subject to CMA approval.

Kirstin Baker, Chair of the CMA inquiry group, emphasized the importance of circular ventilation ducts and fittings in construction and highlighted the risk of higher prices for installers and developers in Nottingham and Stoke-on-Trent due to the reduction in suppliers resulting from the Lindab-HAS-Vent merger.

The CMA's final report on the Lindab-HAS-Vent case, along with further details, can be accessed on the CMA's website.