The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has expressed concerns regarding Topps Tiles' £9 million acquisition of 30 CTD Tiles stores, highlighting potential negative effects on competition in four specific areas of the UK: Dorking, Edinburgh, Inverness, and Aberdeen.

Topps Tiles, the largest specialist tile retailer in the UK, acquired CTD Tiles, which was the second largest before entering administration in August 2024. The deal included not only the stores but also essential infrastructure such as stock and intellectual property related to CTD Tiles and its associated brands.

Following the completion of the acquisition, the CMA received multiple complaints from businesses and retail customers regarding the impact of the deal on competition. A Phase 1 investigation revealed that while most areas still have sufficient competition, the four identified locations could experience reduced competition, leading to worse deals and service for customers.

Joel Bamford, Executive Director for Mergers at the CMA, stated that the merger could make home renovation projects more expensive for both individual consumers and businesses. Topps Tiles has until February 24 to propose solutions to address the CMA's concerns, or the case will move to a more detailed investigation.