Major Appliance Companies Fined €611 Million for Price-Fixing Scheme

French regulators penalized 12 manufacturers and distributors for colluding to inflate prices between 2007 and 2014.

The French Competition Authority imposed a €611 million fine on 10 appliance manufacturers and 2 distributors for anti-competitive practices.
Companies involved include Whirlpool, LG, SEB, Electrolux, Miele, Boulanger, and Fnac Darty, among others.
The collusion aimed to limit competition from online retailers and maintain higher prices for consumers.
Tactics included restricting online sales, issuing coded pricing instructions, and monitoring compliance with these agreements.
Some companies, such as SEB and Boulanger, plan to appeal the decision, while others like Fnac Darty have accepted the penalties.