Probe into proposed Beamish takeover by Heineken set to enter second phase

THE Competition Authority looks set to extend its investigations into the proposed takeover of Beamish & Crawford by Heineken to a second phase of deliberations.

The re-started Phase I study, undertaken by the Authority, has a deadline of August 3, but due to the upcoming August Bank Holiday break, the body is likely to go public with its initial findings this Friday (August 1).

While none of the relevant parties were formally saying anything yesterday, one source close to proceedings said while there was still time for the Authority to make a final ruling on the proposed takeover before the Phase I deadline, “it is looking increasingly likely that matters will move forward to a second phase of study.”