European Commission antitrust investigators have carried out unannounced inspections of energy drink maker Red Bull’s offices in the EU. The company was suspected of violating EU antitrust rules by abusing its market dominance, AFP reports citing officials.
Red Bull confirmed that representatives of the European Commission “visited the premises” on March 20. “We will, of course, work with them on all matters that concern them,” the company said, declining to comment further.
The EC previously said that on March 20, “the premises of a company operating in the energy drink sector in various member states” underwent unannounced inspections. Then the EC did not indicate the name of the company, as well as in which countries the raids took place.
If the company is found guilty of violating antitrust laws, it faces heavy fines, but it may receive immunity if it cooperates with the EC.
Following the death of Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz, the company appointed a board of three directors in November. His son, Mark Mateschitz, now owns Distribution and Marketing GmbH, which owns a 49% stake in Red Bull. The rest belongs to the Thai Yuvidya family.
