The European Commission has imposed fines totaling over 157 million euros (around $183 million) on luxury fashion brands Gucci, Chloé, and Loewe for anti-competitive practices that restricted independent retailers from setting prices for their products.
The Commission said the brands’ resale price-fixing violated EU competition rules, harmed consumers, and would not be tolerated. “This decision sends a clear message to the fashion industry and beyond that unfair practices will not be accepted in Europe, and that fair competition and consumer protection apply equally to all,” said Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera on Tuesday.
According to the Commission, the three brands limited retailers’ freedom to set prices for luxury clothing, leather goods, footwear, and accessories sold both in stores and online. Retailers were required to follow recommended retail prices, observe maximum discount limits, and schedule sales in line with the brands’ own channels. These practices reduced competition and took away retailers’ pricing independence, the Commission noted.
Gucci and Loewe received reduced fines due to cooperation, with Gucci revealing additional violations. Gucci’s fine stands at nearly 120 million euros, Loewe’s at 18 million euros, and Chloé’s fine, reduced by 15%, totals nearly 20 million euros.
