HP TRONIC fined 38.9 million CZK for price-fixing

The Czech Office for the Protection of Competition (ÚOHS) has upheld a final decision to fine HP TRONIC Zlín, spol. s r. o. approximately 38.97 million CZK. The sanction was issued for violating national and EU competition rules by engaging in prohibited price-fixing agreements.

According to the authority, HP TRONIC—which operates retail brands such as Datart and ETA—imposed minimum resale prices on its wholesale customers for over a decade, starting in 2012. This practice prevented retailers from offering lower prices to consumers, thereby stifling price competition for various products, including large and small household appliances, consumer electronics, computer technology, and telecommunications equipment.

While HP TRONIC admitted guilt, it appealed the amount of the fine. Petr Mlsna, the Chairman of the Office, rejected the appeal, stating that the fine was calculated legally and respects the principles of proportionality and individualization of punishment. He noted that the fine represents only a fraction of the company's total net turnover and is neither disproportionate nor ruinous.