Antitrust Law Daily Wrap Up, ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS NEWS: EC approves Berkshire Hathaway purchase of DLMV of Germany, (Apr 28, 2015)

The European Commission has approved the acquisition of German firm Detlev Louis Motorradvertriebs (DLMV) by multinational conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway (case number M.7590). DLMV is a retail distributor of motorcycle clothing, spare parts and supplies in Germany and Austria.

One of Berkshire Hathaway's subsidiaries, Brooks Sports, is active in the retail and wholesale distribution of performance running shoes and related sports apparel. Another subsidiary, Fruit of the Loom, manufactures basic clothing products, including sports and casual wear. Nevertheless, the Commission concluded that the proposed acquisition would not raise any competition concerns because the overlaps between the activities of DLMV and Berkshire Hathaway are very limited.

Pepe Jeans. Separately, the European Commission approved the acquisition of joint control over Spanish firm Pepe Jeans S. L. by French firm LVMH-Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.E. and M1 Fashion Limited of the British Virgin Islands (case number M.7568).

Pepe Jeans sells luxury fashion under the Hackett brand and denim fashion under the Pepe Jeans brand. M1 Fashion belongs to an investment group owning, among others things, the Façonnable brand. LVMH, controlled by Groupe Arnault, is active in the production and sale of luxury goods. The Commission concluded that the proposed acquisition would raise no competition concerns because the overlaps between the activities of Pepe Jeans, M1 Fashion, and LVHM are limited.

Companies: Detlev Louis Motorradvertriebs; Pepe Jeans S. L.; M1 Fashion Limited; LVMH-Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.E.

News: AcquisitionsMergers Antitrust