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The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened an initial review into McCormick and Company’s proposed acquisition of Unilever’s food business.

The regulator is seeking views from interested parties on the potential impact of the transaction on competition in the UK.

The CMA’s merger inquiry opened today (21 July 2026), with written representations invited until 5 August 2026.

The review comes after Unilever and McCormick agreed to combine Unilever Foods and McCormick in a transaction designed to create a global flavour and food business with a portfolio of brands including McCormick, Knorr, Hellmann’s and Frank’s.

The combined business is expected to have revenues of approximately $20 billion based on the companies’ 2025 fiscal figures.

The CMA said its invitation to comment forms part of its initial information gathering process and that it has not yet formally launched a Phase 1 investigation into the transaction. The regulator has received the necessary information from the parties to commence the pre-notification process.

The authority is seeking comments on any competition issues that could arise from the proposed acquisition. Interested parties have until 5 August to submit written representations to the CMA. These will then be assessed before the regulator decides whether to formally commence its Phase 1 merger investigation.

The proposed transaction is one of the largest recent deals in the global food industry. Speaking about the merger when first announced, Unilever CEO said the move is a step closer to sharpening the company’s portfolio.

Upon closing, Brendan Foley is expected to remain chairman, president and CEO of McCormick, and Marcos Gabriel is expected to remain EVP and CFO. Executives from both companies will serve in key leadership roles.

Unilever will appoint four of the twelve members of the combined company board of directors. In addition, one Unilever executive is expected to serve as one of the four directors appointed for two years to support a successful integration.

The CMA’s merger inquiry page is available through its official case page on the UK Government’s website.