The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating Firmenich International SA, Givaudan SA, and International Flavors & Fragrances Inc, along with entities within their corporate groups including UK subsidiaries, for suspected anti-competitive conduct.
The investigation, launched on 7 March 2023, concerns the supply of fragrances and fragrance ingredients used in consumer products such as household and personal care items. In January 2024, the CMA extended its inquiry to include suspected unlawful coordination by these companies regarding the hiring or recruitment of certain staff involved in the supply of fragrances and/or fragrance ingredients.
The CMA has not yet determined if there is sufficient evidence of a competition law infringement to issue a statement of objections. No assumption should be made at this stage that the Competition Act 1998 has been infringed.