A-Level Economics Edexcel A: Case Study 6

Would a merger between two major supermarkets mean lower prices for shoppers, or could it actually make things worse?

This Edexcel A-Level Economics A (9EC0) case study explores a potential merger between Sainsbury’s and Morrisons, using real UK grocery market-share data from 2026.

Students will investigate how mergers can affect competition, why larger businesses may benefit from economies of scale and how increased buying power can affect suppliers and consumers.

What’s included:

• A one-page case study with a short, accessible extract and real UK supermarket market-share data.
• Three original Edexcel-style questions worth 5, 8 and 12 marks (25 marks in total).
• A full mark scheme showing the economic points students could make.
• Clear assessment objective allocations and level descriptors for the extended response.

Specification coverage:

• 3.1 Business Growth
• 3.4 Market Structures
• 3.6 Government Intervention

The questions give students practice explaining the benefits of mergers, examining their effects on suppliers and evaluating whether the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) should intervene to protect consumers.

This resource works well for classroom activities, homework, timed exam practice or independent revision. It’s a useful way to apply economic theory to a realistic business scenario and develop stronger analysis and evaluation skills.

Suitable for Edexcel A-Level Economics A students preparing for the 2027 exams.

Part of our 10-case-study Edexcel Economics A bundle, providing focused exam practice across the specification.