UK: Regulator warns online retailers against price fixing

The competition regulator has warned online traders against price fixing after finding evidence of collusion by sellers using internet marketplaces such as Amazon.

The Competition and Markets Authority said it had written to several online companies that may be giving customers a bad deal by discussing prices with competitors or agreeing not to undercut them.

The letters alerted the companies that the CMA had found signs of price fixing and required commitments to stop collusion. The watchdog has also provided a checklist of what price fixing is and how to avoid it.

The CMA declined to say how many companies it had contacted or to give details about their size or the goods they sell. It said it expected the warnings would reduce collusion without the expense of a full investigation, but that it could still launch such an inquiry.

The CMA sent its warnings as shoppers prepare for the Christmas season. The Black Friday discount period will kick off the frenzy on 25 November, with many shoppers buying online, including from traders on Amazon, eBay and other sites.

Full Content: The Guardian

Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.