On Tuesday 7 March, the European Commission carried out unannounced inspections at the premises of companies and an association active in the fragrance sector in several Member States.
At the same time, the Commission sent formal requests for information to several companies active in the same sector.
The inspections and requests for information concern possible collusion in the supply of fragrances and fragrance ingredients. Fragrances are used in the manufacture of consumer products such as household products and personal care products.
The Commission is concerned that companies and an association in the global fragrance industry have violated EU antitrust rules that prohibit cartels and restrictive business practices (Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union).
The Commission has been in contact with the Antitrust Division of the US Department of Justice, the UK Competition and Markets Authority and the Swiss Competition Commission in connection with this case and the inspections were carried out in consultation with them.
The fact that the Commission carries out such inspections does not prejudge the outcome of the investigation. Under the leniency programme, companies that have been involved in a secret cartel may be granted immunity from fines or significant reductions in fines in return for reporting the conduct and cooperating with the Commission throughout its investigation. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)