Knauf and USG seek clearance to merge
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Gebr. Knauf KG and USG Corporation seeking clearance for the
two to merge.
Knauf is based in Germany and operates globally as a manufacturer and supplier of building materials. Its products
include plasterboard, cement board, metal profiles, plasters and suspended ceilings. In New Zealand, Knauf is active in
the importation and supply of products used for modular suspended ceilings and insulation.
USG is a global manufacturer and supplier of building materials headquartered in the USA. It manufactures a range of
products including plasterboard, cement board, plasters and suspended ceilings. USG is active in New Zealand through its
50% interest in USG Boral Building Products, which supplies plasterboard, suspended ceiling components and other
building materials.
In addition to New Zealand, the proposed merger is to be assessed by competition authorities in several jurisdictions
including Australia, USA and Singapore.
A public version of the clearance application will be available shortly on the Commission’s case register.
Background
We will give clearance to a proposed merger if we are satisfied that the merger is unlikely to have the effect of
substantially lessening competition in a market.
Further information explaining how the Commission assesses a merger application is available on ourwebsite.
ends