Acquisition of retail hardware company cleared

The Bureau announced that it does not intend to challenge the proposed acquisition of Paulin and Co. by The Hillman Companies Inc., both of which are suppliers of retail hardware to retail stores in Canada. Retail hardware products include fasteners, such as nuts, bolts, and other related accessories.

The Bureau reviewed the transaction and concluded that while Hillman and Paulin held moderate market shares in some markets, competition was unlikely to be lessened for several reasons, including countervailing power held by other retail customers, the likelihood of entry from firms located in the US, and the significant competitors left in the market, post acquisition.

Read the Bureau’s Press Release.