The FTC says that the mere threat of an investigation has caused two merging parties to think again. Two popular outdoors equipment retailers — Great Outdoors Group, LLC, known for its Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops brands, and Sportsman’s Warehouse Holdings, Inc. — decided not to move forward with Great Outdoors $785 million purchase of Sportman’s. Competition between the two companies has been good for consumers, and a merger would have increased prices, reduced product offerings, and diminished quality and service, said FTC Bureau of Competition Director Holly Vedova.