The Bundeskartellamt, Germany's antitrust authority, has given the green light for Ipsos Dach Holding AG to acquire all shares of infas Holding AG. This decision comes after a thorough examination of the merger's implications in the social research and opinion polling sectors.

Andreas Mundt, President of the Bundeskartellamt, stated that while infas holds a strong position in social research, Ipsos has had limited involvement in this area within Germany. Consequently, the merger is expected to have a minimal effect on the overall market structure.

Infas Holding AG, based in Bonn, has a long-standing history in market and social research, focusing on various social issues such as working conditions, education, and health. Their studies are often commissioned by government bodies and research institutions.

On the other hand, Ipsos Dach Holding AG is part of the larger French Ipsos group, which operates globally in market research and consulting, including social research in Germany.

The Bundeskartellamt's investigation included feedback from numerous competitors and public contracting entities. It concluded that social research is a distinct segment from general market research, and while infas is a strong player, the merger would not significantly alter market shares. The presence of substantial competitors and the potential for new entrants further support the decision.

Contracts in this sector are typically awarded through tender processes, allowing smaller firms to collaborate as bidding consortia, which enhances competition.