The UK Competition and Markets Authority has opened the first phase of its review into the anticipated acquisition of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) assets from Venator Materials UK Limited by LB Group Co., Ltd. The CMA has issued an invitation to comment, providing interested parties an opportunity to submit initial views on the potential competitive impact of the transaction. Comments are due by 3 February 2026, and the regulator has not yet launched a formal Phase 1 investigation, making this step part of its preliminary information-gathering process.
Under the proposed deal, LB Group would acquire Venator’s TiO₂ manufacturing site at Greatham, UK, along with associated assets used in the production and supply of titanium dioxide. The CMA has received the necessary information from the parties to commence pre-notification, a procedural stage that allows the authority to begin assessing potential market effects.
LB Group is a globally recognized manufacturer of high-performance titanium dioxide pigments, with more than 35 years of experience in the sector. Its BILLIONS™ TiO₂ pigment brand is used worldwide in a wide range of applications, including paints, plastics, inks, and paper. The company produces its TiO₂ pigments using both sulfate and chloride processes and maintains a significant presence in high-performance pigment markets.
Venator Materials UK, based in Wynyard, UK, is a major player in the production of titanium dioxide and related performance additives. The company manufactures products for various industrial applications, including color pigments, functional additives, timber treatments, and water treatment products, establishing a strong presence across multiple key product lines.
The CMA’s invitation to comment marks the first stage in assessing whether the acquisition could affect competition in the UK market for titanium dioxide. Stakeholders, including competitors, suppliers, and customers, are encouraged to submit written representations outlining any concerns, which will inform the authority’s next steps in determining whether a full investigation is warranted.