The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has concluded that Aramark must divest its acquisition of Entier, following a thorough investigation that revealed the merger would negatively impact competition in the UK offshore catering and facilities management sector.

Aramark, a global provider of food and facilities management services, acquired a 90% stake in Entier, a prominent British catering company, in January 2025. Both companies are key suppliers of offshore catering services to oil and gas platforms in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) and the North Sea.

The CMA's independent panel found that the merger combined two of the three major suppliers in the UK market, which is critical for offshore infrastructure operators who rely on catering services for their staff's well-being and operational efficiency. The merger would limit customer choices and potentially lead to higher prices and lower service quality.

Evidence indicated that Aramark and Entier are viewed as strong competitors, with customers typically inviting both to tender for contracts. The panel determined that other competitors would not be able to provide sufficient alternatives in the near future.

Despite Aramark's withdrawal of an initial remedy proposal, the CMA explored various options to address the competition concerns. Ultimately, the only viable solution was to require Aramark to sell Entier to an approved buyer.

Richard Feasey, chair of the independent panel, emphasized the importance of competition in ensuring quality catering services for offshore workers. The CMA now has 12 weeks to accept Final Undertakings from Aramark or issue a Final Order for the sale of Entier.