Merger Update: Hays / Polka Dot & Hays/Millington

Start of CMA Merger Investigations: Hays and Polka Dot and Hays and Millington

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is considering whether it is or may be the case that these transactions have resulted in the creation of relevant merger situation in respect of each merger under the merger provisions of the Enterprise Act 2002 and, if so, whether the creation of these mergers has resulted, or may be expected to result, in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the United Kingdom for goods or services.

The CMA announced the launch of its merger inquiry by notice to the Parties on 25 February and has deadlines of 26 April 2026 (in respect of Polka Dot) and 27 April 2026 (in respect of Millington) for its phase 1 decisions.