The Romanian Competition Council (Consiliul Concurenței) has imposed a fine of 4,552,647 lei (€915,068) on Thelios SpA, the exclusive producer and distributor of LVMH (Louis Vuitton – Moët & Chandon – Hennessy) luxury eyewear in Romania, for engaging in anticompetitive practices in the online retail market.
The authority found that Thelios SpA, together with its partner Shades Originators SRL, restricted the sale of luxury eyewear through online channels. Under Thelios’ commercial policy, Shades Originators was prohibited from selling LVMH glasses via its online store, thereby limiting competition and restricting consumer choice in Romania’s luxury eyewear market.
Shades Originators SRL, however, applied for leniency and reported the anticompetitive practices, receiving full immunity from fines under Romania’s competition law.
The Competition Council emphasized that any agreements or concerted practices that prevent, restrict, or distort competition in the Romanian market are strictly prohibited. Decisions issued by the authority are enforceable, and fines collected are transferred to the state budget, with the National Agency for Fiscal Administration (ANAF) responsible for enforcement.