Chile competition authority seeks nearly $40 million fine against Pluxee
Details of the Pluxee Collusion Case in Chile
Background of the Allegations
May 27 (Reuters) - Chile's competition watchdog is seeking a fine of $39.6 million against French voucher and benefits provider Pluxee over alleged collusion with Edenred in the country, Pluxee said on Wednesday.
FNE's Complaint and Accusations
The National Economic Prosecutor's Office (FNE) issued its complaint on Tuesday, accusing Pluxee of colluding with rival Edenred to allocate market shares between 2013 and 2021.
Pluxee's Response
Pluxee said in a press release it would assess the complaint and determine appropriate measures while reaffirming its commitment to ethical business conduct.
Regulatory and Market Context
Antitrust Court and Leniency Program
The Chilean regulator asked the country's antitrust court to exempt Edenred from financial penalties due to its participation in a leniency program.
Market Share and Company Operations
Pluxee, which operated as Sodexo in Chile until 2024, and Edenred controlled more than 80% of Chile's food and clothing voucher market during the period, according to the FNE.
Additional Information
Comments from the Companies
Pluxee and Edenred were not immediately available for comment.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Dimitri Rhodes in Gdansk, editing by Milla Nissi-Prussak)
