Polish Competition Watchdog Investigates Dino Polska for No-Poach Collusion
UOKiK Launches Probe into Dino Polska and Transport Firms
June 2 (Reuters) - Poland's competition watchdog UOKiK has opened an investigation into supermarket chain Dino Polska and four transport companies over suspected collusion that may have restricted truck drivers from switching employers, it said on Tuesday.
Background on No-Poach Investigations in Poland
The case is the latest in a series of no-poach investigations by UOKiK targeting Polish retail chains and their logistics contractors, following proceedings against Jeronimo Martins' Biedronka chain and a preliminary inquiry into Lidl's practices.
Response from Dino Polska
Dino Polska did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
Details of the Alleged Collusion
Companies and Individuals Involved
• The four transport companies named by UOKiK service Dino Polska's distribution centres
• Five individuals also face allegations, including three Dino Polska managers
Alleged Scheme Organization
• UOKiK suspects Dino Polska organised the alleged scheme, verifying which drivers could enter its distribution centres and approving any exceptions to the alleged no-poach arrangement
Potential Penalties
• Companies found to have taken part in a collusive agreement face fines of up to 10% of turnover
• Individual managers face penalties of up to 2 million zlotys ($550,464)
Exchange Rate Information
($1 = 3.6333 zlotys)
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Rafal Nowak in Gdansk, editing by Milla Nissi-Prussak)
