UK Competition Authority CMA, has approved the acquisition of Experian Payments Gateaway (EPG) by Bottomline Technology through in-depth investigation.
Bottomline and EPG provide payments software that allows to make payments via Bacs and Faster Payments Direct Corporate Access systems used by businesses to submit direct debits, make payroll payments and pay suppliers. CMA carried out an in-depth investigation due to the multiple competition concerns such as decreasing competition, increasing prices, reduction in product availability and reduction in innovation. Through Phase 2, CMA came to the conclusion that EPG was no longer a strong force in the market and that following the deal, alternative companies remain in the market and the acquisition does not raise competition concerns. Finally, CMA has approved the acquisition.
(CMA Decision – 17.03.2020)