Sainsbury’s-Asda merger could be put on hold due to investigation

The Competition and Markets Authority has referred the merger between Sainsbury’s and Asda for a further ‘in-depth investigation’.

The CMA announced on Wednesday that the deal raises ‘sufficient concerns’ to face further investigation.

The ‘phase 2 investigation’ will be a more in depth review, held by a hand-picked group from the authority’s panel.

The CMA has said that they will review evidence through customer surveys and engagement with other retailers, suppliers and other industry bodies.