8 September 2009: Acquisition of TMC and NT1 by TF1
The Autorité de la concurrence has decided to open an in-depth examination of the operation.
In principle, it will issue its decision before the end of the year.
As several newspapers have reported – after information was made public by managers from the companies in question – the Autorité de la concurrence confirms that the acquisition by the TF1 group of the companies NT1 and Monte-Carlo Participations (head holding company of the TMC channel and of its subsidiary TMC Régie), that was notified to it on 24 July, requires an in-depth examination (phase 2). In compliance with the applicable texts, it has referred to the CSA (Broadcasting Regulator) that will provide its opinion at the start of October.
On the basis of an extended consultation with market actors, the Autorité will notably strive to determine if the operation could threaten competition, notably through the creation or strengthening of a dominant position, in light of the recent changes in the television advertising markets.
The texts call for this examination to be carried out in principle within 65 business days of the launch of phase 2, with it being possible to lengthen this interval if necessary, for example in order to complete the finalizing of commitments or in order to consider the occurrence of a new fact.