Competition restrictions regarding the presentation of alcoholic beverages on retail shelves

This decision concludes an investigation into alleged anti-competitive practices concerning the placement of drinks products on the shelves of retail stores. The decision is based on settlements reached by the Competition Authority with, on the one hand, Ölgerðin Egill Skallagrímsson hf. and, on the other hand, Coca-Cola European Partners Ísland ehf.

 By the aforesaid agreements, which are identical, the companies commit to following specific conditions intended to ensure that new and smaller competitors are not prevented from competing by larger rivals in relation to the display of beverages on retail shelves.

 Furthermore, the companies agree that certain communications between them, concerning the presentation of their products and those of their competitors in grocery stores, breached the prohibition on competitor cooperation. The companies also agree to pay administrative fines in relation to the case, totalling 37 million krónur, on the basis that the two companies bear equal responsibility. In determining the fines, it was of great significance that the case was not subject to a continuous investigation and was significantly delayed by the Competition Authority. The willingness of the companies to cooperate, as reflected in the conclusion of the aforementioned settlement and other events during the investigation, was also taken into account when determining the fines.