Keeping on top of the latest developments in the Safeway auction frenzy is not easy - neither is getting a handle on the possible implications for the grocery market.

But help is at hand. The Grocer has teamed up with a host of industry experts to run a special seminar on the Safeway saga. The half-day seminar - which we are calling What Price Safeway - takes place at the Intercontinental, Park Lane in London on February 12.

The content of the seminar is aimed at all those who will be affected by the fallout from the last big deal in British grocery.

Proceedings will kick off with a presentation by The Grocer’s editor Julian Hunt, who will bring delegates up to date with the latest developments in the auction. He will also outline the views of the industry’s leading magazine on recent events.

Former Somerfield boss, and Littlewoods chairman, David Simons will then offer a unique retailer’s perspective on mergers, discussing whether they ever can be made to work and highlighting the issues raised by a Safeway merger.

Delegates will get a chance to obtain some hard data on how a deal could affect the future shape of the grocery landscape in this country.

Ed Garner, from leading researcher Taylor Nelson Sofres, will use the latest market share data to highlight the relative strengths and weaknesses of each bid. And Ian Goodliffe, from consumer demographic specialists CACI, will provide a view on key issues such as store overlaps.

Top analyst Mike Dennis, from CAI Chevreux, will give the City view - and discuss the likely outcome of the auction.

Places at the seminar are limited. For more information call Jo Williams on 01293 610398 or email jo.williams@william-reed.co.uk

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