The Polish competition authority, UOKiK, has imposed fines on Jura Poland and Euro-net for obstructing an investigation into alleged price-fixing of Jura coffee machines. The total fines amount to 11 million PLN, with 10 million PLN levied against Euro-net and 1 million PLN against Jura Poland.

The investigation began in late November 2022 when UOKiK officials, with court approval and police assistance, conducted unannounced searches at several companies suspected of engaging in anti-competitive practices. During these searches, employees of both Jura Poland and Euro-net deleted crucial evidence from their work phones, including conversations on WhatsApp that could have provided insights into potential collusion.

UOKiK President Tomasz Chróstny stated that the actions of the companies hindered the collection of evidence necessary to substantiate claims that consumers were paying inflated prices for Jura products. The fines reflect the severity of the obstruction, although they are not yet final and can be appealed in court.

The ongoing investigation into price-fixing practices is still in the preliminary stages. If sufficient evidence is gathered, UOKiK may initiate formal antitrust proceedings against specific companies involved. Penalties for participating in anti-competitive agreements can reach up to 10% of a company's turnover, while responsible managers could face fines of up to 2 million PLN.

UOKiK also offers a leniency program that allows companies involved in illegal agreements to reduce or avoid fines by cooperating with the authority and providing evidence of the collusion.