German Cartel Office Raids Coffee Makers
The office was investigating suspicions that retail price collusion had taken place between coffee companies possibly since 2004, a spokeswoman for the agency said. The spokeswoman declined to name the companies involved. However, Munich-based coffee roaster Dallmayr said it had been visited by agency investigators.
“Yes, there has been a search of our offices as has taken place at all large roasters,” a Dallmayr spokeswoman said. “We are working fully and totally with the authorities to clear up the allegations.” She added that German retail prices for coffee were at a very low level. Germany’s largest roaster Tchibo also said it had been visited by cartel office officials. A Tchibo spokesman said the officials “had asked questions” and that Tchibo would fully cooperate in investigations. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: coffee companies, coffee futures, Coffee Makers, coffee prices, coffee roaster, coffee roasters, food producers, futures markets, german unit, international coffee, retail prices, robusta coffee