The Czech Office for the Protection of Competition (ÚOHS) has successfully closed an investigation into potential anti-competitive provisions found in the ethical code of the Signmaking Suppliers Association. This case was resolved through competition advocacy, avoiding the initiation of formal administrative proceedings and any penalties.

The investigation was initiated by the authority itself, focusing on a provision in the ethical code that prevented members from actively soliciting employees from other member companies for job offers. According to Kamil Nejezchleb, the vice-chairman of ÚOHS, this provision could negatively impact employees by limiting their job mobility, which in turn could affect their financial compensation and working conditions.

In response to the authority's request, the association removed the problematic provision from its ethical code and replaced it with a new version, informing its members of the changes. Consequently, the authority decided not to initiate formal proceedings, taking into account that the provision was not applied in practice and the association's cooperative approach in swiftly implementing corrective measures.

Signmaking is a sector focused on the production of visual advertising, information, and orientation systems, including the creation of advertising signs, banners, vehicle wraps, cut graphics, and illuminated advertisements. The Signmaking Suppliers Association represents approximately ten companies in this field.

For more information on agreements related to wage-fixing or employee poaching, refer to the ÚOHS information sheet from 2023 titled 'Competition Aspects of Labor Market Agreements.'