( August 18, 2026, 06:57 GMT | Official Statement) -- MLex Summary: A proposal by VC Operations, part of Vets Central group, to acquire the business assets of Hills Veterinary Centre from Australian veterinarian Jonathan Julian Carruthers requires an in-depth Phase 2 review, the country’s competition regulator said. In a statement on Tuesday, the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission said that the acquisition could substantially lessen competition in the supply of small animal, general practice veterinary services during standard hours in the local Blackwood area in South Australia. The regulator said it is also considering whether the proposed deal, combined with Vets Central’s acquisitions over the past three years, could substantially lessen competition in the relevant market. Vets Central is an Australian owned veterinary group that owns and operates 78 first-opinion veterinary practices across the country. The regulator said that Hills Veterinary Centre is a full-service veterinary practice in South Australia.Statement follows. Phase 2 notice is attached....
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