A PYMNTS Company

UK Watchdog Orders Shares Sell Off “To Protect Consumers” In Window Blinds Merger

By  |  September 14, 2020

The Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) has decided Hunter Douglas, owner of online blinds retailer Blinds2Go, must sell the majority of its shares in Huddersfield-based 247 Home Furnishings.

The CMA, which published on Monday, September 14, its final decision on its inquiry, claims this is to protect competition and prevent higher prices.

Hunter Douglas originally purchased a minority stake in 247 Home Furnishings (247) in 2013 and subsequently bought the remaining 51% in 2019.

Hunter Douglas is a global supplier of a range of window coverings such as blinds and curtains, which generated US$3.6 billion in sales in 2018.

It owns established online and in-store UK brands, Blinds2Go and Hillarys. 247 operates solely online in the UK.

Following an in-depth investigation, the CMA stated it has decided Hunter Douglas must sell the 51% share in 247 that it acquired in 2019.

Full Content: The Business Deck

Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.