Carlsberg’s takeover of Britvic has been given the go-ahead by the competition watchdog, with a completion date now set for next month.

When the £3.3bn deal was first announced in the summer, Carlsberg said it would save around £100m over five years through supply chain, procurement and administrative efficiencies.

The acquisition was conditional on, among other things, clearances from the European Commission and the Competition and Markets Authority and Carlsberg said these had now been received.

A Carlsberg spokesperson said: “We’re delighted to have received all necessary regulatory clearances and, subject to the satisfaction of the court, we look forward to completing the transaction in January 2025.

“We believe the combination of Carlsberg and Britvic will create a highly attractive multi-beverage supplier in the UK, with an efficient supply chain and distribution network that provides our customers with a portfolio of market leading brands and world-class service.”

Carlsberg intends to create a single drinks business called Carlsberg Britvic after completing the takeover.

Wincanton said this week it had extended its storage and distribution contract with Britvic for another 10 years.

The deal is expected to be completed in January 2025.