Tarkett on merger track

The German floor covering manufacturer Tarkett, which has a major plant in Mullingar, Co Westmeath, has said it is on track to merge with Sommer Allibert of France this year despite attempts to block the fusion.

Chief executive, Mr Lars Wisen told a news conference he expected cartel authorities in Germany and the US to approve the link-up over the coming weeks and said the merger should go ahead in mid-November.