The Interim General Rapporteur of the French competition authority, known as the Autorité de la concurrence, has announced that its Investigation Services conducted an unannounced inspection at various companies in the glass packaging sector. This action was authorized by a liberty and custody judge, indicating the seriousness of the allegations being investigated.

While the inspection suggests potential anticompetitive behavior, it is important to note that it does not imply guilt on the part of the companies involved. The determination of any wrongdoing will only be made following a thorough investigation into the facts of the case.

The Autorité de la concurrence has chosen not to disclose further details regarding the companies involved or the specific practices under scrutiny. This approach is consistent with their policy of maintaining confidentiality during ongoing investigations.

In an effort to promote transparency and fairness, the Autorité de la concurrence typically publishes a press release after the conclusion of such inspections. However, this release will not identify the companies inspected and will uphold the presumption of innocence for those involved.

Companies that may have concerns about their own practices are encouraged to participate in the leniency program offered by the Autorité. This program allows firms to report information that could assist in uncovering anticompetitive practices, providing a pathway for compliance and potential immunity from penalties.