December 16, 2025
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is to carry out a full Phase 2 investigation into the proposed purchase of O.C.L. Laundry Services Limited by Elis S.A.
Elis S.A. and O.C.L. Laundry Services Limited are both active in the outsourced supply of flat linen rental and maintenance services in the State. Flat linen is an industry term describing products such as towels, flat-ironed bed sheets, pillowcases and tablecloths. The maintenance services provided by Elis S.A and O.C.L Laundry Services Limited include the collecting, sorting, washing, drying and folding of such linen. Customers of flat linen rental and maintenance services include accommodation providers (e.g. hotels, hostels, B&Bs), hospitals, and nursing homes.
Elis S.A. is active in the State through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Elis Textile Services Limited and Berendsen Ireland Holdings Limited.
Under competition law, the CCPC must assess certain mergers and acquisitions in order to prevent harmful effects on competition in the State. In doing so, the CCPC considers the potential impact of mergers and acquisitions on consumers, such as changes to price, consumer choice, quality and innovation.
This proposed transaction (M/25/050) was notified to the CCPC on August 15, 2025. Following a preliminary examination, the CCPC has decided an in-depth investigation is needed to establish whether the proposed transaction will result in a substantial lessening of competition in the State.
As the investigation is ongoing, the CCPC is unable to share any further information.
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