News

« Headlines

Bertrams will continue to be run separately

24.07.07 Graeme Neill

Bertrams and THE will continue to trade as separate companies during the Christmas period even if Bertrams' takeover by THE parent Woolworths goes ahead in September. The takeover looks likely after the Competition Commission said it was "provisionally clearing" the deal earlier today.

Stephen East, financial director at Woolworths, said that he was "very pleased" with the provisional ruling. He added that both businesses are not allowed to begin the integration process until the final ruling has been given, and must still be treated as separate. The previous decision that THE will continue to trade books to the independent sector throughout the Christmas period still stands, he said.

"We need to make sure the whole run into Christmas period is not disrupted. That is our primary consideration," he said. "The THE decision was made to focus on ensuring its quality of service would still be delivered during this period."

Bertrams' outgoing c.e.o. Terry Reilly said that Bertrams will continue to operate as it has done during the past few months. "Once the final decision is made we will be able to think about what we could, and should, be doing to help our customers better," he said. "We are not taking anything for granted but we are very encouraged by the provisional findings."

The CC will now move on to the second part of its inquiry and has asked for interested parties to comment on the provisional findings, in writing, by 14th August 2007. To submit evidence, email marjorie.davies@cc.gsi.gov.uk. The CC is expected to publish its final report in early September, and no later than the statutory deadline of 17th September 2007.

Bertrams woolies Graeme Neill

See Also