The CMA has published a statement as part of its investigation into Iron Mountain’s anticipated acquisition of Recall. The merger was referred for an in-depth phase 2 investigation in January.
Both Iron Mountain Incorporated (Iron Mountain) and Recall Holdings Limited (Recall) supply records and information management services in the UK – specifically records management services, which comprise the storage and retrieval of paper and hard copy records, and physical offsite data protection services, which involve the storage and retrieval of data and media on tapes/discs. The 2 companies operate from a total of 59 sites across the UK.
The inquiry group of Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) panel members must decide whether, if the acquisition is completed, a relevant merger situation will be created and, if so, whether the creation of that situation may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the UK for goods or services. The inquiry group must report by 29 June 2016.
The issued statement identifies clearly for all interested parties the key questions that the inquiry is examining. The issues statement does not imply that the inquiry group has yet identified any competition concerns. The full issues statement is available on the case page along with all other published information relating to the inquiry.
Anyone wishing to respond to the issued statement should do so in writing, by no later than 5pm on 17 February 2016. Please email iron.recall@cma.gsi.gov.uk or write to:
Project Manager
Iron Mountain/Recall merger inquiry
Competition and Markets Authority
Victoria House
Southampton Row
London
WC1B 4AD