McCormick, US5797802064

McCormick stock faces UK antitrust hurdle in $65 billion deal

Published on 11/12/2026 at 03:59 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS

The CMA gave the companies until November 18 to offer remedies. McCormick stock faces a regulatory test before the planned combination advances.

UK review puts merger remedies in focus

The UK Competition and Markets Authority raised concerns about competition in dry ingredient mixes and dry sauces.
McCormick and Unilever can offer remedies by November 18 to avoid an in-depth investigation.
The companies say they are working constructively with the regulator and remain confident in timely closing.

McCormick, US5797802064, Illustration mit AI erstellt.

Britain's Competition and Markets Authority has raised a new hurdle for McCormick's planned combination with Unilever's food business. In a Reuters report published Wednesday, November 11, 2026, the UK watchdog said the transaction could reduce competition in the supply of dry ingredient mixes and dry sauces to retailers.

Remedies deadline sets next step

The CMA gave McCormick and Unilever until November 18 to offer remedies. Without an acceptable proposal, the regulator could refer the transaction to an in-depth investigation, which could clear the deal, require asset sales or other remedies, or block it.

The review focuses on overlaps between McCormick's Schwartz products and Unilever brands including Knorr, Maille and Colman's. The CMA found no competition concerns in the combination of French's, Colman's and Maille mustard products because consumers do not view English, French and American-style mustard as close substitutes.

McCormick and Unilever said they are working constructively with the regulator. McCormick also said it continues to make progress on regulatory approvals globally and remains confident in a timely closing. The transaction cleared a US regulatory hurdle on October 5, according to the Reuters report.

Late trading remains in focus

McCormick stock traded at 42.24 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 11:00 p.m. CET on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. The late quote provides a current investor reference, while the next regulatory response is due by November 18.

McCormick's business and competition

McCormick & Company makes spices, seasoning mixes, sauces, condiments and flavor systems for consumers, food manufacturers and foodservice customers. Its Consumer and Flavor Solutions segments serve markets across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, China and Australia, and the company is headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland. Its branded portfolio includes McCormick, French's, Frank's RedHot, Schwartz and Cholula. In packaged foods, it competes with companies such as Nestle, Premier Foods and Unilever, with McCormick specializing in spices, seasonings and sauces alongside its industrial flavor business.