The New Zealand Commerce Commission has announced its decision to issue a Statement of Issues concerning the acquisition application from J&P Turner Limited (JPT) for up to 100% of Turners & Growers Fresh Limited (T&G Fresh).

This Statement will be published on the Commission’s case register and will detail the potential competition issues identified during the Commission's initial investigation. It will also invite feedback from JPT, T&G Fresh, and other interested parties.

Importantly, the Statement of Issues is not a final decision; it does not indicate whether the Commission will ultimately approve or reject the acquisition.

The Commission aims to reach a decision on the application by August 26, 2026, but is currently in discussions with JPT regarding a possible extension of this timeline. Any new decision date will be updated on the Commission’s case register.

The Commission emphasizes that clearance for a merger will only be granted if it is confident that the merger will not significantly lessen competition in the relevant market.