By Andrew Starke
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued a Statement of Issues on the proposed acquisition of P&N Beverages Australia by Asahi Holdings (Australia).
The Statement of Issues seeks further information on certain competition issues which have arisen from the ACCC's review.
In late August Japan’s second largest brewer signalled its intention to be a significant player in the Australian beverage market by acquiring the fruit juice company in a $364 million deal.
P&N Beverages is Australia's third-biggest beverage maker by volume, and the fourth biggest by value.
It is best known for soft drinks brands like Pub Squash, LA Ice Cola, Frantelle spring water and Waterfords mineral water.
The ACCC invites submissions from the market in response to the Statement of Issues by December 20, 2010.
As a result, the ACCC's final decision will be deferred until February 3, 2011.