The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has conditionally approved the acquisition of Oliehandel Klaas de Boer by FincoEnergies, a rival oil company. This decision comes with specific conditions aimed at preserving competition in the marine fuel supply market.

Both companies are significant suppliers of marine fuels in various Dutch ports, including Harlingen, Lauwersoog, Eemshaven-Delfzijl, and Den Helder. ACM's investigation revealed that these ports have limited suppliers, making it difficult for buyers to switch to alternative sources due to distance and costs. As a result, the acquisition raised concerns about potential price increases and reduced choices for buyers.

To address these concerns, FincoEnergies and Oliehandel Klaas de Boer are required to divest several business assets, including the name 'Klaas de Boer,' to GMB Groep, which is associated with Slurink Transport Services. This divestiture includes five bunkering tankers, a storage terminal in Harlingen, and the customer base of Klaas de Boer. These measures are intended to ensure that buyers in the affected ports continue to have access to multiple bunker suppliers.

ACM also evaluated the impact of the acquisition on buyers in the port of IJmuiden and concluded that there would be no negative consequences for them. The authority's role in assessing mergers and acquisitions is crucial to maintaining competition, which is essential for high-quality products, competitive pricing, and innovation in the market.