Merger Alert: Nikisize (Pty) Ltd and Autozone Holdings (Pty) Ltd

The Competition Tribunal (“Tribunal”) has approved the proposed merger wherein Nikisize (Pty) Ltd (“Nikisize”) intends to acquire Autozone Holdings (Pty) Ltd (In Business Rescue) (“Autozone”), subject to public interest and competition related conditions.

Nikisize is ultimately controlled by Metair Investments (Pty) Ltd (“Metair”) and operates as an investment holding company. The Metair Group manages an international portfolio of companies that manufacture, distribute and retail products for energy storage and automotive components. Its business comprises two key divisions, namely the: (i) automotive components division; and (ii) energy storage division (“ESD”). The ESD further manufactures and supplies automotive aftermarket batteries.

Autozone is a wholesaler and retailer of aftermarket automotive parts, spares and car accessories including batteries, brake components, shocks, gaskets, gearboxes, engine parts, oil pumps and other heavy-duty parts catering for passenger and light commercial vehicles, steering wheels covers, pedal pads, tyre rims, sound systems and headlight LED replacement globes. In addition, a subsidiary of Autozone acts as an agent between suppliers and customers in relation to the supply of motor spare parts.

Issued by:

Gillian de Gouveia, Communications Manager
On behalf of the Competition Tribunal of South Africa
Cell: +27 (0) 82 410 1195
E-Mail: GillianD@comptrib.co.za
Twitter: @comptrib