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Vodafone/Airtouch - Mobile telecommunications services

United Kingdom
31/10/1999
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Vodafone Group plc (UK) has acquired sole control over the American company Airtouch Communications, Inc. The European Commission has approved the merger despite competition concerns when the notification was submitted by the parties in April 1999. The companies’ main activity is in the operation of mobile telecommunications networks. The new company is active in most European countries. As regards mobile telecommunications, the competition concern identified by the Commission was dispelled through Vodafone’s divestment in its stake in E-plus, thus eliminating overlap with Airtouch in the German market for mobile telecommunications. The geographic market was defined as national since permanent roaming is currently not an economically sensible alternative. The merger is largely complimentary and the only Member States of overlap are Germany and Sweden. Subject to full compliance with the commitments made by Vodafone, the Commission decided not to oppose the operation. (Case No. IV/M.1430, decision of 21.05.99)

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