Swiss cartel authorities back Aldi and Lidl expansion plans

Swiss regulators back expansion plans of German discount retailers Aldi and Lidl, Handelsblatt reported, citing a statement made by the Swiss cartel office.

 The report said the cartel office approved the takeover of
Switzerland's third-largest retailer Denner by market leader Migros, but only
under restrictions valid seven years, designed to help Aldi and Lidl establish
themselves first.
For instance, Migros and Denner are banned from combining their
procurement operations before Aldi and Lidl have opened 250 outlets combined.
While Aldi has opened 50 outlets in Switzerland over the
past two years, Lidl has first constructed logistical hubs and will open its
first outlets next year, the report said.
It also said that prices in Swiss retail fell on average 10
pct due to the market entry of German retailers.