In a fast-tracked decision, the Czech Office for the Protection of Competition approved the merger of competitors Travel Service, a.s. and České aerolinie, a.s. (Czech Airlines). This decision is now final. After examining the facts, the Office found that the merger would not significantly distort competition. No duties were imposed on the parties to protect competition on relevant markets. As part of the approved transaction, Travel Service will increase its stake in Czech Airlines, thereby gaining exclusive control over the company. The transaction is the culmination of Travel Service’s long-running efforts to increase its interest in Czech Airlines.
The Office’s press release was published on December 18, 2017. The proceedings approving the merger are reported in file no. S0462/2017.