28/11/24 (Agence Europe) – Following a formal investigation initiated in January 2022 (see EUROPE 12880/18), the European Commission decided to fine the French fashion house Pierre Cardin (€2.24 million) and its main licensee, Ahlers, (€3.5 million) for infringing EU competition law by restricting cross-border sales of Pierre Cardin clothing and sales of these products to certain customers. It found that the French fashion house and the German clothing manufacturer had entered into anti-competitive agreements and concerted practices guaranteeing Ahlers absolute territorial protection in the countries covered by its licensing agreements with Pierre Cardin in the European Economic Area (EEA). Retailers have been prevented from freely choosing their source of supply in EU Member States for the products concerned at lower prices. (MB)