A PYMNTS Company

US: Deal with Amazon might save Staples-Office Depot merger

 |  March 17, 2016

Office Depot has been the center of various M&A chatter lately, with most of the conversations focusing on a pending acquisition by Staples.

However, earlier in the month, news began to circulate that the US Federal Trade Commission was seeking to obstruct the deal. Despite the merger’s approval (with concessions), the FTC’s complaints highlighted a potential monopoly situation where the proposed merger would both stifle competition and raise customer prices. The suit began in December, with ruling to begin in March and a ruling due May 10.

Staples has publicized that an alternative is being developed, as this marks the second time the FTC has stepped in between Staples and Office Depot on M&A talks.

Full content: Seeking Alpha

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