The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Bureau of Competition Director Daniel Guarnera issued a statement regarding PlayPower's decision to abandon its acquisition of BCI Burke. This decision follows a lawsuit filed by the FTC and several states aimed at blocking the merger.

Guarnera emphasized that this outcome is a victory for American consumers, as it will help lower prices for playground equipment purchased by schools, churches, daycares, and parks departments. With state and municipal governments spending hundreds of millions annually on such equipment, taxpayers stand to benefit significantly from the continued competition between PlayPower and Burke.

The FTC highlighted that the top five manufacturers, including PlayPower and Burke, dominate 85% to 90% of the commercial outdoor playground equipment market. The proposed merger would have reduced the number of major competitors from five to four, granting PlayPower's owners control over more than 30% of the market. The remaining smaller manufacturers often lack the necessary resources to effectively compete.

Guarnera expressed gratitude to the FTC staff and state partners for their efforts in building a strong case against the merger. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Trump FTC to protect American consumers from detrimental deals that could lead to higher prices, diminished quality, and reduced innovation.