Woolworths faces probe over Queanbeyan Supa IGA bid

Preliminary supermarket competition concerns have been raised by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) over Woolworths’ plan to acquire the Supa IGA in Karabar and its associated liquor store, Liquor Boss.

The competition watchdog says both Woolworths and Supa IGA Karabar currently compete in supplying groceries in the broader Queanbeyan region encompassing Karabar and Jerrabomberra.

ACCC commissioner Liza Carver said competition between supermarkets is important in ensuring different product ranges, promotions, and service offerings.

“We are concerned that this proposed acquisition is likely to substantially lessen competition in the supply of groceries in the local area.”

Carver added the acquisition would “reduce” the number of supermarket operators by a significant size and range from four to three, leaving only Woolworths, Coles and Aldi in the region.

“We are also considering whether the acquisition raises similar concerns in relation to liquor stores, by removing the Liquor Boss as an independent competitor to major liquor store operators.”

The ACCC is also examining the impact of the acquisition on the competitiveness of other independent supermarkets in the region.

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