Coalition sues to block playground equipment company merger

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 00:31 · Archive

Arizona and eleven other states have joined the FTC in suing to block PlayPower's acquisition of BCI Burke.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has joined a bipartisan coalition of twelve attorneys general and the Federal Trade Commission in a lawsuit to block PlayPower's acquisition of BCI Burke. The two companies are among the largest makers of commercial outdoor playground equipment.

The coalition's complaint alleges that the merger would reduce competition, leading to higher prices, less innovation and worse service. The effects would be felt by schools, churches, parks and recreation departments across the country. Mayes said in a statement: "Playgrounds are where Arizona kids learn, play and grow, and our schools and communities shouldn't pay inflated prices for them."

The lawsuit highlights a concentrated market: five companies currently control eighty-five to ninety per cent of the US playground equipment market. PlayPower already owns several major brands including Miracle Recreation Equipment Company, Little Tikes Commercial and Playworld Systems Inc. The other attorneys general joining the lawsuit are from California, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.

How it is being reported

• Arizona AG Mayes joins FTC fight to block playground equipment mergerA battle over America’s playgrounds is heading to court as Arizona joins a bipartisan push to block a major equipment merger.Azfamily · 20 Oct, 00:05
• Coalition including Arizona sues to block playground equipment company mergerArizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has joined a bipartisan coalition of 12 attorneys general and the Federal Trade Commission in a lawsuit concerning a potential merger between PowerPlay and BCI Burke.KOLD · 19 Oct, 19:20

In this story: Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes · Federal Trade Commission · PlayPower · BCI Burke · Arizona

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