UK watchdog warms to Greene King's concessions on pub deal
LONDON, May 26 (Reuters) - Britain's competition watchdog said it was likely to give the go-ahead to pub group Green King's takeover of rival Spirit in light of an offer by the former to sell a total of 16 pubs.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) had earlier this month said it would undertake an in-depth investigation of the 774 million pound deal unless the companies offered to dispose of pubs in a small number of areas where there was no alternative.
It said on Tuesday that the proposed disposals might be acceptable, and it would make a decision by July 21.
Of the 16 pubs identified to be sold, nine are Greene King (Other OTC: GKNGY - news) pub and seven are Spirit, Green King said in a statement.
(Reporting by Paul Sandle; editing by Sarah Young)