The Competition Council (CC) has initiated procedural actions in the funeral services sector as part of an ongoing investigation into potential anticompetitive conduct. On October 2, 2025, the CC conducted measures authorized under Article 9, Part Five, Clause 4 of the Competition Law, targeting several companies and facilities active in the funeral market.
According to the authority, there is evidence suggesting that at least eight undertakings may have exchanged commercially sensitive information and engaged in unlawful collusion. Alleged practices include coordinated bidding and agreements on terms of participation in procurement procedures organized by public entities, as well as tenders related to funeral services and specialized road transport. Such conduct, if confirmed, would constitute a violation of Section 11, Part One of the Competition Law, which prohibits collusion between competitors.
Serious Breach with Severe Penalties
Cartel arrangements, particularly in public procurement, are regarded as among the most serious infringements of competition law. Companies found guilty may face fines of up to 10% of their net turnover from the preceding financial year (with a minimum fine of €700 per participant). In addition, undertakings involved in collusion are barred from participating in public procurement procedures for three years following the entry into force of the CC’s decision.
Aim and Scope of the Procedural Actions
The purpose of the CC’s actions is to collect the information and evidence necessary to determine whether the suspected violation occurred. A definitive finding of infringement can only be established upon completion of the full investigative process, once all evidence has been assessed.
The Council further noted that other market participants may also have been involved in the suspected practices, even though formal proceedings have not yet been initiated against them. The scope of the investigation may therefore expand or narrow as new evidence emerges.
Leniency Program Reminder
In this context, the CC has reminded companies of the availability of its Leniency Program. Undertakings that voluntarily disclose their participation in anticompetitive conduct may qualify for full immunity from fines or a substantial reduction in penalties.
Confidentiality at Current Stage
The authority emphasized that it cannot disclose details about the companies subject to procedural measures, given the ongoing nature of the investigation and the need to safeguard its effectiveness.
