The European Commission has launched an in-depth Phase II antitrust investigation into Austrian furniture giant XXXLutz’s proposed acquisition of German competitor Porta. European regulators expressed preliminary concerns that combining two of Central Europe’s largest furniture networks could significantly reduce competition across both retail markets and supply chains in multiple Member States.

The transaction would merge Porta’s network of over 140 stores operating under brands such as Porta, SB Möbel Boss, and Asko, into XXXLutz’s footprint of more than 1,800 retail locations across Europe, which includes store brands like Mömax, Home24, Roller, and Möbelix.

At the retail level, the Commission highlighted significant horizontal overlaps in Germany, Czechia, and Slovakia. Both entities represent major full-range furniture retailers operating in close geographic proximity, with a particularly strong combined presence in the German discount segment. Regulators warn that removing Porta as a direct competitor could eliminate critical market constraints, potentially leading to higher prices and diminished choice for consumers.

Upstream, regulators are examining whether the deal would grant XXXLutz excessive buyer power. XXXLutz already executes bulk procurement through its purchasing entity, GIGA International. Absorbing Porta’s purchasing volume would eliminate one of the few remaining independent large-scale buyers in Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, and Poland, potentially creating severe supplier dependency to the detriment of rival retailers.

The Commission was formally notified of the transaction on September 7, 2026, and now has until February 25, 2027, to issue a final ruling. Separately, European enforcers are maintaining a standalone investigation into whether XXXLutz and Porta engaged in unlawful gun jumping by implementing elements of control prior to securing regulatory clearance.