Jeronimo Martins Polska fined for driver labor market collusion

The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) has imposed significant fines following an investigation into anti-competitive practices within the transport sector serving Biedronka distribution centers. Jeronimo Martins Polska received a fine of 525,535,050 PLN, part of a total sanctioning amount of 571,960,550 PLN against various participants.

UOKiK determined that transport companies had established agreements to avoid competing for drivers. Under this arrangement, drivers wishing to move to a competing firm serving the same distribution center required consent from their current employer. Without such consent, drivers faced a “blockade” or mandatory waiting period lasting several months, preventing them from working at specific centers.

Authorities stated that this practice limited competition for labor, which in turn reduced pressure on employers to increase wages and improve working conditions. The agreement reportedly functioned from June 2017 until February 2024. The decision is not yet final, and the involved parties have the right to appeal to court.