Acquisition of International Distribution Services plc by EP UK Bidco Limited: notice of final order
Published 19 December 2024
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1. Following a detailed national security assessment, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster has made a Final Order pursuant to section 26 of the National Security and Investment Act 2021 (“the Act”), which comes into force on 19 December 2024.
2. The Parties who are subject to the order are:
i. EP Group a.s., formerly known as EP Corporate Group, a.s.;
ii. EP UK Bidco Ltd;
iii. International Distribution Services plc; and
iv. Royal Mail Group Ltd.
3. EP UK Bidco Ltd will gain control of the qualifying entity by acquiring 75% or more of the shareholding in International Distribution Services plc. This will result in an increase in the percentage of shareholding from less than 75% to 75% or more, which constitutes a trigger event under section 8(2)(c) of the Act.
4. The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster has approved the transaction, subject to the Parties ensuring that Royal Mail Group Ltd remains able to and continues to provide services that are in support of UK national security.
5. The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster considers that the Final Order is necessary and proportionate to mitigate the risk to national security relating to Royal Mail Group Ltd acting as a critical supplier of services provided to UK Government departments which are in support of national security.