Agreements in retail? – Weko investigates possible cartel in retail – News



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Allegedly Unauthorized Dealings by Distributors Through Schwyz Debt Collection Company – Competition Commission is investigating matter.

The Competition Commission (Weko) has opened an investigation against 15 wholesalers and retailers and the debt collection company Markant. Landi, Manor, Volg, Valora, Spar and some wholesalers are said to have agreed with Markant to the detriment of product suppliers.

The investigation deals with everyday products: Wholesalers and retailers buy drinks, food and hygiene items from suppliers. Retailers such as Landi, Volg, Manor or wholesalers such as Pistor and Saviva can settle accounts directly with suppliers or have collection done through a third party. In the case that Weko is now investigating, the payment transactions go through the debt collection company Markant, which is based in Pfäffikon SZ.

Evidence of coercion

Weko has indications that suppliers have been forced to settle accounts through Markant. Strong pressure should have been put on suppliers, says Frank Stüssi, Deputy Managing Director of Weko: “It goes so far that suppliers are threatened not to keep their products on the shelves if they are not ready to take over the collection. Hitting to handle” .

He made several home searches

That is why the Comco has now opened an investigation to clarify the matter. As part of the investigation, Como examines whether these alleged agreements represent inadmissible restrictions on competition. With the opening of the procedure, Weko carried out house searches in several companies.

A Markant spokesperson told SRF News: “We are surprised by the investigation and we are cooperating with Weko. We believe that we are operating within the legal framework in all the countries in which we operate. “

Volg, Manor or Landi only confirm that Weko has started an investigation, but they don’t want to comment on everything. However, they all say they are cooperating with Comco. Volg also confirms a search of the house by Comco.

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