Norway's Competition Authority is considering a prohibition on Elkjøp's planned acquisition of Eplehuset, citing concerns that the merger would weaken competition in the sale of Apple products to private consumers.
The regulator outlined its position in a press release on Monday, signaling a potential regulatory hurdle for the electronics retailer.
The authority's scrutiny focuses specifically on the market for Mac and iPad sales to private customers.
By combining Elkjøp's extensive retail network with Eplehuset's specialized Apple-focused inventory, the merged entity could gain a dominant position that limits consumer choice and pricing power in this niche segment.
This targeted intervention suggests the regulator is willing to block specific aspects of a deal or the entire transaction if it deems the competitive harm too significant.
The development adds uncertainty to the transaction timeline.