Bundeskartellamt Clears Merger Between va-Q-tec AG and EQT (Envirotainer)

On June 12, 2023, the German Federal Competition Authority ("the Bundeskartellamt") published the news regarding the acquisition of the shares and sole control of Würzburg-based va-Q-tec AG by Luxembourg-based EQT Fund Management S.à.r.l.

The Bundeskartellamt, has cleared its approval to EQT Fund Management S.à.r.l., Luxembourg, for the acquisition of shares and sole control of va-Q-tec AG, Würzburg. va-Q-tec is a company that specializes in thermal insulation and cold chain logistics solutions. EQT already has control over Envirotainer AB, a Swedish supplier based in Sollentuna, Sweden, which develops, manufactures, and leases temperature-controlled containers primarily used in the air transport of biopharmaceuticals.

Andreas Mundt, President of the Bundeskartellamt, stated that thorough investigations were conducted in this case, involving surveys of approximately 180 customers and competitors of the merging parties, most of whom were located abroad. It is evident that Envirotainer will expand its already strong market position by merging with va-Q-tec. While some market participants expressed concerns regarding competition, the investigations ultimately did not provide enough evidence to meet the requirements for prohibiting the project. The merger will enhance Envirotainer's market position, allowing it to gain market shares from va-Q-tec. Additionally, Envirotainer will benefit from the addition of new technologies, container sizes, and packaging solutions to its product portfolio. The expansion of its network of handling stations for the delivery and return of leased containers, as well as access to va-Q-tec's customer base, particularly air carriers, will further contribute to Envirotainer's growth.

You can access the full text of the news here.

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