The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced that it has launched an inquiry into Uber’s acquisition of Cheadle-based Autocab.
Autocab makes tech for private hire and taxi operators and the acquisition would increase Uber’s market presence in the UK from 40 to 170 locations.
Today, the CMA has launched an inquiry to investigate whether it will lessen competition within the market.
“The CMA is considering whether it is or may be the case that this transaction, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a relevant merger situation under the merger provisions of the Enterprise Act 2002 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 United Kingdom for goods or services,” it said in a statement.
“To assist it with this assessment, the CMA invites comments on the transaction from any interested party.”
The deadline for a “phase 1 decision” is 26th March.
Should the deal go ahead, Uber has previously said that Autocab would remain an independent brand, with its own board.
