CCPC issues assessment to parties regarding acquisition of O.C.L. Laundry Services by Elis S.A.
March 30, 2026
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has issued its preliminary assessment to the parties involved in the proposed acquisition by Elis S.A. of O.C.L. Laundry Services Limited. Elis S.A. is active in the State through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Elis Textile Services Limited and Berendsen Ireland Holdings Limited.
The assessment sets out the CCPC’s provisional concerns that the proposed acquisition may substantially lessen competition in the provision of flat linen rental and maintenance services in the State which could lead to higher prices, lower quality, and reduced innovation in the market. This is an important market for the hospitality sector meaning it impacts the tourism sector and the broader economy too. As part of the assessment, the CCPC has conducted economic analysis of the market, and reviewed a significant volume of evidence including statements from the merging parties, internal documents and third-party evidence from competitors and customers of flat linen and maintenance services
As this is a preliminary assessment and not a final determination, the parties now have the right to respond in writing. The parties can also request to make oral submissions and request access to the CCPC’s non-confidential file. The CCPC will review any additional evidence received and come to a view on whether the merger could lead to a substantial lessening of competition in its final determination.
Both Elis S.A. and O.C.L. Laundry Services Limited are active in the supply of flat linen rental and maintenance services. Flat linen refers to products such as towels, ironed bed sheets, pillowcases and tablecloths. The maintenance services offered by both companies include the collection, sorting, washing, drying and folding of linen for hospitality customers including hotels, hostels and B&Bs. Elis also supplies flat linen services to hospitals and nursing homes. Elis serves hospitality customers from facilities in Co. Cork and Co. Dublin, while OCL provides services from a single plant in Co. Mayo.
This proposed transaction (M/25/050) was notified to the CCPC in August 2025. Following a preliminary (Phase 1) examination, the CCPC concluded that an in-depth (Phase 2) investigation was needed to establish whether the proposed transaction would lead to a substantial lessening of competition in the State.
Based on the timelines as set out in the CCPC’s merger review process, it is expected that the full investigation will conclude no later than July 2026. At that time, the outcome of the investigation will be published on ccpc.ie. A full non-confidential version of the CCPC’s determination will subsequently be published.
As the investigation is ongoing, no further information or comment can be provided at this time.
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