The competition regulator is looking closely at the increasingly blurred lines between the larger craft beer brands and more mainstream beer offerings as it sets out a lengthy timetable for an inquiry into beer giant Lion’s proposed acquisition of Fermentum, the owner of Stone & Wood.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has given itself almost three months to reach a decision on the proposed buyout, with an indicative timetable pinpointing December 9 for a final decision after it conducts a market review.