Authority raids French wine and spirits firms

France’s national competition regulator has raided a number of wine and spirits firms over “possible anti-competitive practices”.

Wine and spirits companies across France have been investigated over possible anti-competitive practices

The Autorité de la Concurrence released a statement on 10 April stating it had inspected the sites of wine and spirits companies on 9 April, however it would not identify the firms.

The watchdog also said that the investigations did not mean that a breach had taken place.

Paris-based Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits (MBWS) was quick to release a statement on the raids, claiming it had “supplied all of the information in its possession and is ready to supply further information”.

MBWS also said “the group reiterates its commitment to respect all of the rules and regulations to which it is subject”.

Rémy Cointreau confirmed it had not been visited by the Autorité de la Concurrence. Pernod Ricard refused to comment.

The Spirits Business has also approached LVMH for comment and is awaiting a response.