PCC clears Robinsons’ acquisition of Premiumbikes

CEBU, Philippines — The Philippine Competition Commission has announced that it found no competition concerns in Robinsons Supermarket Corp.’s plan to acquire Premiumbikes Corp., clearing the transaction after a market review.

Robinsons Supermarket, a unit of the Gokongwei group, operates grocery, convenience and specialty retail chains across the Philippines, including Robinsons Supermarket, Easymart, Shopwise, The Marketplace and Uncle John’s.

The group also runs a do-it-yourself retail business through Robinsons Handyman Inc., which operates the Handyman Do It Best and True Value brands.

Premiumbikes sells motorcycles, spare parts and accessories at wholesale and retail, with a network of more than 200 outlets nationwide. Its portfolio includes motorcycle brands such as Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, TVS and Kymco.

The PCC’s mergers office reviewed local markets where both companies operate, focusing on the sale of motorcycle accessories as well as oils and lubricants. The assessment drew on submissions from the companies and feedback from regulators, competitors and industry groups.

The regulator said the deal is unlikely to lead to a substantial reduction in competition, citing the parties’ limited market shares and the presence of multiple rivals in the affected markets.

As a result, the combined firm would have little ability or incentive to raise prices or otherwise harm competition, the PCC said in a statement.

The commission added that it will continue to scrutinize mergers and acquisitions to ensure markets remain competitive and fair for consumers and businesses.