UK Competition Authority Eyeing McCormick-Unilever Merger

The UK CMA has started a Phase 1 inquiry into McCormick & Co's $44B acquisition of Unilever's food business, which includes brands like Marmite and Horlicks. The deal, announced in March 2026, aims to streamline Unilever's portfolio. Unilever is also selling Colman's mustard to address competition concerns, as McCormick owns French's mustard.

UK regulators are investigating McCormick's $44.8B acquisition of Unilever's foods business, assessing potential competition impacts. Unilever sold Colman's mustard to address concerns. The CMA will decide by November 11. The deal would create a global flavor portfolio, including brands like Hellmann's and Cholula.

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating McCormick & Co.'s $44.8bn acquisition of Unilever's food assets, including brands like Knorr and Hellmann's. The Phase I probe will assess competition impacts, with a deadline of 11 November. Unilever and McCormick have already agreed to sell Colman's mustard to address potential concerns. Unilever shareholders will own 55.1% of the combined entity, McCormick 35%, and Unilever 9.9%, plus $15.7bn in cash.

The UK CMA is investigating the $65B merger between Unilever's foods unit and McCormick, concerned about reduced competition. Unilever will own 65% of the combined company, with a decision due by 11 November. Both companies see growth potential in the deal, according to their CEOs.

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority has begun a probe into McCormick's acquisition of most of Unilever's food business, with a deadline of Nov. 11 to decide if a deeper investigation is needed.

UK's competition regulator is investigating McCormick's acquisition of most of Unilever's foods business to assess potential impact on competition in UK markets.