The Latvian competition authority, Konkurences padome (KP), has approved the merger between AIBE pārtika SIA and Sabiedrība ar ierobežotu atbildību “LAUMIŅA 1”. This decision, made on September 17, 2026, allows AIBE to gain decisive influence over LAUMIŅA 1, which operates food retail stores in Viļāni under the names “Minūtīte”, “Dālderis”, and “Big”.

AIBE is involved in the retail sector for everyday consumer goods, including food, and collaborates with independent retailers within its network. The business model emphasizes cooperation among retailers, providing centralized procurement, logistics, advertising, and marketing services.

In assessing the merger's impact on the local retail market for everyday consumer goods in Viļāni, KP analyzed various store sizes and geographical areas. The authority found no concerns regarding a deterioration of the competitive situation, leaving specific product and geographical market boundaries open.

KP also evaluated the vertically related procurement market for everyday consumer goods across Latvia. The authority concluded that the merger would not significantly alter market structure, reduce competition, or create or strengthen a dominant position in any of the markets where the merging parties operate. Consequently, KP decided to allow the merger.

To prevent significant reductions in competition due to mergers, the Latvian Competition Law requires that such transactions receive approval from the Konkurences padome. This ensures state control over market concentration, preventing structural changes that could limit consumer choices or lead to non-competitive pricing in the long term.