The Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa) is investigating a number of companies in the flour industry over suspected involvement in a cartel. The agency said it drew up several reports against a number of companies suspected as having concluded cartel agreements at the end of 2009 after a “thorough” investigation. Similar investigations have also been carried out in other countries, including Germany, Italy and Belgium, the authority said. “The companies in question still have... ...Read more »

The EU is investigating an alleged banana cartel in southern Europe – a year after finding companies including Dole Food Co. and Chiquita Brands International guilty of price-fixing in the north of the continent. The European Commission said that it has issued a “statement of objections” to “a number of companies active in the import and marketing of bananas” over claims of a cartel. The parties concerned, which according to a Commission spokesperson cannot be identified,... ...Read more »

Amcor announced today that the settlement that was conditionally reached two weeks ago with Cadbury has been finalised. Packaging firm Amcor had been facing a payout of $235.8 million if Cadbury received the damages they were after for anti-competitive pricing arrangements entered into by Amcor and Visy earlier this decade. How much of that claim Cadbury received remains a mystery, however it is believed that the settlement may have included a minor portion of the damages and a deal to reduce future... ...Read more »

Cadbury has won compensation from packaging heavyweight Amcor for allegedly paying higher prices as a result of Amcor’s four year cartel arrangement with Visy. Beyond their reputation, it is the first time Amcor has received punishment for the collusion with Visy that cost Visy Chairman Richard Pratt $36 million. However, they have managed to avoid a potentially long court case, with an out-of-court settlement likely to be significantly below the $235.8 million sought by the chocolate maker. Amcor... ...Read more »

Amcor may not have been fined by the ACCC for the much publicised collusion with Visy, but they could still receive a heavy penalty as the fallout from the cartel arrangement continues to haunt. The packaging giant is set to face the courtroom this week to battle claims made by key customer Cadbury, with the damages case that was first filed in December 2006 to finally make it to the courtroom on Wednesday. The UK-based confectioner is seeking damages of $235.8 million for allegedly paying higher... ...Read more »