Triumph for fairness in trade

Triumph for fairness in trade

The Federal Competition Authority (BWB) had accused the company of exploiting its dominant position in new car sales and vehicle repair operations to the detriment of its contractual partners. An affected dealer took the case to court and argued that Peugeot Austria's contractual terms and business practices threatened its economic existence. Specifically, the following practices were criticized:

1. Koppelung von Prämienzahlungen an Kundenzufriedenheitsumfragen: Die variablen Vergütungen der Händler hingen von den Ergebnissen von Kundenzufriedenheitsbefragungen ab. Wurde ein bestimmter Schwellenwert nicht erreicht, entfielen die variablen Prämien vollständig, unabhängig von anderen Leistungskennzahlen.
2. Überhöhte Verkaufsziele: Peugeot Austria setzte für die Händler ambitionierte Verkaufsziele fest. Das Nichterreichen dieser Ziele führte zu einer Reduktion der variablen Marge, was die Gewinnspannen der Händler erheblich beeinträchtigte.
3. Preisgestaltung der Tochtergesellschaft: Die konzerneigene Tochtergesellschaft von Peugeot Austria, die PSA Retail Austria GmbH, bot Fahrzeuge zu besonders niedrigen Preisen an. Diese aggressive Preisstrategie erschwerte es unabhängigen Händlern, wettbewerbsfähig zu bleiben.
4. Unzureichende Vergütung für Garantie- und Gewährleistungsarbeiten: Die Entschädigungen, die Händler für die Durchführung von Garantie- und Gewährleistungsarbeiten erhielten, deckten oft nicht die tatsächlichen Kosten, was zu finanziellen Verlusten führte.
5. Erhebung von Schulungspauschalen: Händler wurden verpflichtet, für Schulungen Gebühren zu entrichten, die als zusätzliche finanzielle Belastung empfunden wurden.

Decision of the court

The Vienna Higher Regional Court confirmed the BWB's allegations and found that Peugeot Austria had abused its dominant market position (file number 26 Kt 5/23i). The court ordered the company to immediately stop these unlawful practices. A fine was also imposed, although the exact amount was not publicly disclosed. In addition to the financial penalty, Peugeot Austria must revise its terms and conditions and internal processes to avoid future violations. The company is now under increased scrutiny from competition authorities and further violations could result in even more serious sanctions. Yücel Saykili, speaker of the Federal Vehicle Trade Committee in the WKO, comments on the court decision: "As a representative of the interests of the Austrian vehicle trade, we see the cartel court's decision in the fine proceedings as a clear signal for more legal certainty in dealer-supplier relationships. The imposition of a fine affects all brands and sends a strong signal for fair and future-oriented sales structures. Together with our partners on the importer side We look forward to a strong future – characterized by partnership and fairness.” This decision strengthens the position of vehicle dealers compared to large importers and manufacturers. Dealers should carefully examine their contracts with manufacturers such as Peugeot Austria and pay attention to potentially disadvantageous clauses. If you suspect unfair practices, it is advisable to seek legal advice or contact the Federal Competition Authority. A proactive approach can help identify and eliminate unfair conditions, leading to a fairer and more balanced business relationship in the long term.