21/12/2004 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has granted clearance under the EU Merger Regulation to the acquisition of joint control of MGC of Italy by Guernsey-based undertaking Permira, Private Equity Partners (PEP) of Italy and Marazzi also of Italy. MGC is active in the production and distribution of ceramic tiles. Marazzi is a holding company, controlled by the Marazzi family, which currently owns MGC. Permira and PEP are both private equity firms controlling several companies, none of whom is active in the ceramic tiles market, or in upstream or downstream markets. The operation was examined under the simplified merger review procedure.