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Decision of the French Competition Authority

30.10.2024

Paris, October 30th 2024

The French Competition Authority sanctioned several players active in the sector for the distribution of electrical equipment in France, including Sonepar, in proceedings involving allegations of vertical price fixing between two manufacturers and two distributors. 

Sonepar was fined EUR 96 million for having allegedly allowed the manufacturer Schneider Electric to fix the resale prices of Sonepar to its customers. However, the Authority dismissed the existence of any anti-competitive agreement between Sonepar and Legrand.

Sonepar believes that it acted in the interest of its customers and in strict compliance with competition rules, and firmly contests the decision of the French Competition Authority. Sonepar will appeal the decision before the Paris Court of Appeal and remains confident in its ability to prove that the decision is unfounded both in law and in facts.

About Sonepar

Sonepar is an independent family-owned company standing as the world leader in B-to-B distribution of electrical equipment, solutions, and services. In 2023, Sonepar achieved sales of €33.3 billion. Present in 40 countries with a dense network of brands, the Group is leading an ambitious transformation to make its customers’ lives easier providing them with an omnichannel experience and sustainable solutions in the building, industry, and energy markets. Sonepar’s 45 000 associates are committed to accelerating the world’s electrification and driven by a shared Purpose: Powering Progress for Future Generations.

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