Athens, February 18, 2022 - The Hellenic Competition Commission (HCC) has carried out unannounced inspections (dawn raids) at the premises of an undertaking active in the cosmetics and personal care sector.

The unannounced inspections are part of the HCC’s investigation into suspected anti-competitive practices under Article 1 of Law no. 3959/2011 and/or Article 101 of the Treaty for the Functioning of the European Union.  The HCC is concerned that the undertaking might engage in practices that affect retail prices and prevent members of its selective distribution network from selling its products through online platforms. 

The fact that the HCC has carried out inspections does not mean that the inspected undertaking has engaged in anti-competitive behaviour, nor does it prejudge the outcome of the investigation itself. 

Background

The HCC is responsible for enforcing Greek and EU antitrust rules in the Greek territory (Articles 1 and 2 of Greek Law 3959/2011 and Articles 101 and 102 TFEU). 

• Article 1 of Law no. 3959/2011 and Article 101 of the TFEU prohibit anticompetitive agreements and decisions of associations of undertakings that prevent, restrict or distort competition. 
• Article 2 of Law no. 3959/2011 and Article 102 of the TFEU prohibit the abuse of a dominant position.