The Competition Bureau has filed an application to order grain company Parrish & Heimbecker (P&H) to sell either their elevator at Moosomin, Sask., or their newly-purchased elevator at Virden, Man. The application cites the recent acquisition by the company gives P&H control of the two elevators which are along a 180 km stretch of the TransCanada Highway. Prior to this, the elevators were close competitors due to their proximity.
“Canadian farmers deserve competition to protect their bottom line,” says Matthew Boswell, commissioner of theCompetition Bureau. “This action seeks to protect farmers near Virden from suffering financially as a result of this transaction.”
The news release also says the two elevators closely monitored each other’s wheat and canola prices and responded to competitive activity from each other by offering farmers better prices.The recent acquisition eliminates this competition.
Full application details can be found by clicking here.
