UOKiK clears Biedronka and Lidl of wrongdoing in butter price probe

The Polish Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) has concluded its investigation into butter promotions offered by discount retailers Biedronka and Lidl. The probe followed complaints from the National Revisionary Union of Consumer Cooperatives 'Społem' and an anonymous whistleblower, who alleged that prices as low as 0.99 PLN to 1.99 PLN per 200g block constituted unfair competition and suggested products were being sold below cost.

UOKiK stated that there is currently no evidence of legal violations, price collusion, or the unfair use of contractual advantage over suppliers. The regulator noted that selling goods below the average purchase price does not inherently break the law, especially when promotions are limited by time, quantity, or specific conditions. The agency characterized the low prices as a result of intense price competition between the retail chains.

Industry experts and dairy representatives have warned that these promotional prices do not reflect actual production and distribution costs. Economists suggest that the real market value of a butter block should be closer to 5-6 PLN, indicating that these deep discounts may be temporary. UOKiK has stated it will continue to monitor the market.