The takeover of Delta college by Akmi, owned by BC Partners, has been blocked. Greece’s competition watchdog rejected the deal, saying it could harm fair competition in the private education market.
Akmi is a major education brand in Greece and has been part of BC Partners for two years. The watchdog refused the fund’s promises to prevent market dominance. It said the deal would reduce choices for students and create unfair pressure on smaller schools.
This decision is rare. In 30 years, the watchdog has rarely blocked mergers. Most markets in Greece are small and spread out, so deals usually don’t limit competition. But in this case, the takeover would have made Akmi too powerful.
Experts say this move protects student options, pricing, and fairness. It also sends a message to other large investors in Greece’s education sector. Even global funds must follow strict rules.
The deal, if approved, could have reshaped Greece’s education market. But the block shows that strong oversight is still in place. BC Partners may appeal, but for now, the watchdog’s decision stands.
