Press release – The Competition Authority conducts raids at companies in the food market

In response to media enquiries about today's actions, the Competition Authority wishes to make the following statement.

The Competition Authority has today carried out searches at the offices of two retailers and three players in the import and wholesale of foodstuffs. The actions were based on information received by the Competition Authority and obtained from individuals and companies following recent media coverage of the food market. In press release On 1 November, the Competition Authority urged those who believed they had information about breaches of competition law to bring that information to its attention, and a considerable number have responded to that appeal.

The investigation now underway focuses primarily on alleged breaches of Article 10 of the Competition Act, namely possible illegal collusion between retailers and suppliers. The investigation is in addition to other investigations currently underway and previously made public.

The Competition Authority will expedite the newly-launched investigation as much as possible, but it is clear that the inquiry is extensive and that it will take some time to analyse the data that has been collected.

It is worth noting that it is significant for the swift resolution of the case whether companies or individuals decide to assist the regulator with its investigation. In the event of an infringement, the Competition Authority may, in accordance with the law, waive a fine if a company is the first to provide it with information or evidence concerning illegal collusion that can lead to the proof of an infringement. Fines may also be reduced if companies assist the authority by providing significant evidence. Furthermore, the Competition Authority may decide not to refer individuals who disclose such infringements and assist with the investigation to the police. Companies and individuals who may have participated in illegal collusion therefore have a clear incentive to assist the authority, which in turn can lead to a more expedited process. Further information on this can be found on the Competition Authority's website.

At this stage, the Competition Authority is not providing any further information about the investigation.