The CNMC has approved the creation of a joint venture combining the retail businesses of Arenal and Druni in Spain, controlled by Modelo Continente Hipermercados, S.A., and the Casp family. The merger affects the retail distribution market of perfumes and cosmetics, including luxury products.

Concerns arose regarding potential competition issues, particularly in Ponferrada, where the acquisition could lead to a monopoly in the luxury cosmetics distribution market. To address this, the parties committed to divesting the Druni store in Ponferrada.

The companies proposed commitments to mitigate competition risks, with the main one being the divestment of the Druni retail store in Ponferrada. This divestment aims to eliminate market overlap and maintain the prior market structure. Additionally, a potential buyer has been identified to operate the store for a minimum of 3 years.