The plan of the two Finnish pipe groups Uponor (Vantaa; www.uponor.com) and KHW Group (Vasaa; www.kwhpipe.com) to merge their infrastructure pipe businesses into a new joint venture called Uponor Infra Oy (see Plasteurope.com of 25.09.2012), shall not be approved by the Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority, the latter proposes to the Market Court. Originally, the transaction was expected to close in Q1 2013.

Against the view of Uponor and KWH, the Competition and Consumer Authority considers that the transaction could potentially lead to a significant impediment of competition in the markets for infrastructure products. Uponor and KWH will familiarise themselves with the proposal and consider a further course of action, the Vantaa-based pipe producer said. The companies have the right to file their defence for the case at the Finnish Market Court and the Market Court shall give its decision by 25 May 2013.