Octopus takeover of Shell will be firmly in CMA’s sights

The acquisition of Shell Energy Retail will propel Octopus Energy to 6.5 million customers and number two of the big six they set out to disrupt when they emerged onto the scene. But with the half-dozen biggest energy suppliers now monopolising 90% of customer accounts, will the Competition & Markets Authority seek to intervene in the deal? Adam John, who has followed the company from challenger brand to household name, looks at whether competition concerns will be raised over Octopus' own contribution to the 'cosy oligopoly' in the energy retail space.