Competition Switzerland - Q 4 2010

Investigations

FCC imposes fines for price-fixing in doors components sector

On November 4, 2010, the Competition Commission (FCC) fined four undertakings CHF 7.6 million for agreements on prices between competitors in relation to the distribution of doors components (doorknobs, hinges, locks, etc.). The investigation has shown that the undertakings colluded in determining the moment and the amount of price increases. An investigation for the same facts is currently under way in the EU.

In 2007, after an undertaking had reported its involvement in a qualified hard-core cartel, the FCC launched a regular investigation, by dawn raiding the offices of the principal market participants. Later in the course of the investigation, information on a second (still hidden) cartel was brought to the attention of the FCC by a cartel participant. The undertaking that provided information which made it possible for the FCC to start the regular investigation qualified for