Merger Update

Invitation to Comment

Transfer of shares to Sportsdirect.com Retail Limited from Kaupthing Singer & Friedlander Limited of a minority interest in Blacks Leisure Group plc

The Office of Fair Trading is considering whether a relevant merger situation has been created as a result of a transfer of shares representing a minority interest in Blacks Leisure Group plc to Sportsdirect.com Retail Limited. Sportsdirect.com Retail Limited is owned by Sports Direct International plc which also owns the retailer Field and Trek. Should it be found to be a relevant merger situation the OFT will further consider whether the creation of that situation may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods or services that warrants reference to the Competition Commission for investigation.

Affected sector: outdoor apparel and camping equipment

Please send written representations about any competition or public interest issues to:

Tim Geer

Office of Fair Trading

Fleetbank House

2-6 Salisbury Square

London EC4Y 8JX

Email: tim.geer@oft.gsi.gov.uk 

Fax: 020 7211 8916

to arrive by 1 June 2010.