The European Commission has carried out unannounced inspections at the premises of several companies operating in the ski equipment sector. The inspections form part of a preliminary investigation into potential infringements of EU competition law.
According to the Commission, there are concerns that the inspected companies may have engaged in practices contrary to Article 101 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which prohibits cartels and other restrictive business arrangements that could distort competition within the Single Market. Officials from relevant national competition authorities accompanied Commission inspectors during the raids.
Preliminary Nature of Inspections
Unannounced inspections—commonly referred to as “dawn raids”—are an initial investigatory measure aimed at gathering evidence of potential anticompetitive conduct. The initiation of such inspections does not imply that the companies involved have committed any infringement. Nor does it prejudge the outcome of the proceedings.
The Commission emphasized that the rights of defence are fully respected throughout the process, including the right of the inspected companies to be heard before any potential decision on liability or sanctions is made.
Investigation Process and Duration
There is no statutory deadline for completing inquiries into suspected anticompetitive conduct under EU law. The duration of each investigation depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the degree of cooperation from the parties involved, and the exercise of procedural rights by the companies concerned.
Whistleblower Mechanism
To enhance detection of unlawful practices, the Commission has developed an anonymous whistleblower tool that enables individuals or firms to report suspected anticompetitive behaviour securely. The encrypted system ensures two-way anonymous communication between whistleblowers and Commission officials, thereby protecting the identity of those providing information. The tool is available through the Commission’s website.
