Latest acquisition by Elverys goes before competition body

The proposed acquisition of Cork retailer Mahers Sports by Elverys Sports has been notified to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC).

No jobs are expected to be lost as a result of the deal, which was announced by the two retailers last week.

Staunton Sports, the company behind Elverys, operates a chain of more than 50 shops selling branded leisurewear, footwear and sports goods and equipment around Ireland.

The Elverys name first appeared in 1847*. The company was bought out of examinership by its management last April with backing from CapNua and AIB. Mahers Sports was founded in 1971, initially as a golf outlet, with the family-owned business later opening a large general sports store on Cork’s Oliver Plunkett Street.

The Elverys deal does not include a separate Mahers’ golf store on Penrose Quay.

Elverys’ purchase of Mahers, assuming it gets the all clear from the CCPC, is expected to be followed up by further expansion in Munster by the chain.

* Edited November 16th