The Polish competition authority, led by President Tomasz Chróstny, has initiated an antitrust investigation into Oltens 1, a company involved in the wholesale sale of bathroom fixtures, including faucets, toilets, sinks, and bathtubs. The investigation focuses on allegations that Oltens 1 colluded with independent sellers to set prices for its products online, preventing them from being sold below the prices established by the wholesaler.

According to the information gathered, Oltens 1 monitored the pricing practices of its sellers and intervened if they sold products at lower prices or offered free shipping. Initial disciplinary actions included phone calls, followed by potential restrictions on ordering goods or even termination of cooperation agreements. Sellers were also reportedly monitoring each other's prices and could request Oltens 1's intervention if any seller deviated from the agreed pricing.

The suspected collusion may have resulted in consumers being unable to purchase Oltens products at lower prices. As a result, the competition authority has filed charges against Oltens 1 and its two managers, with potential fines reaching up to 10% of the company's annual turnover and a maximum penalty of 2 million PLN for the managers involved.

To mitigate the penalties associated with participating in the alleged collusion, Oltens and its managers may consider the leniency program offered by the competition authority. This program allows companies involved in illegal agreements to reduce or avoid financial penalties by cooperating as whistleblowers and providing evidence of the anti-competitive practices.

The competition authority also encourages anonymous whistleblowers to report any anti-competitive practices through a dedicated platform, ensuring complete anonymity for those who come forward.