Investigation into the merger of the TF1 and M6 groups: the French Superior Audiovisual Council sends stakeholders a questionnaire to prepare its opinion to the Competition Authority.

As part of the proposed acquisition of exclusive control of the M6 group by the Bouygues group, the French Superior Audiovisual Council has launched an initial round of hearings in the second half of 2021. The investigation of this transaction is twofold:

1. Demand for an opinion from the Competition Authority
On November 2, 2021, the Board received a request for an opinion from the Competition Authority. In preparation for this opinion, it has just sent a questionnaire to all players likely to be affected by the transaction, asking for their comments. The French regulatory authority for audiovisual and digital communication (Arcom), which will take over from the French Superior Audiovisual Council on January 1, 2022, will submit its observations to the Authority by March 31, 2022.

2. Request for approval of M6 group channels
The French Superior Audiovisual Council has also received a request from the M6 group's channels for approval under article 42-3 of the French law of January 30, 1986, which stipulates that "any service editor holding an authorization (...) must obtain approval from the French Superior Audiovisual Council in the event of a change in the direct or indirect control (...) of the company holding the authorization". To this end, Arcom will draw up an impact study, which will be made public in accordance with the law. Interested parties and third parties will be able to submit their written observations and demand to be heard by Arcom. Subject to the Competition Authority's decision, approval of the transaction is expected in the second half of 2022.

In examining this transaction, Arcom will pay particular attention to ensuring plurality in the audiovisual landscape, which implies both maintaining a high number of operators and diversity in the programs and content offered to the public.