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\nThe penalties follow separate hearings at the Auckland High Court.
\nPhoto: 123RF\n<\/p>\n
Two courier companies found to be involved in cartel behaviour have been ordered to pay more than $1.2 million combined.<\/p>\n
Courier service Aramex has been penalised $700,000, while a second company, GoSweetSpot, has been penalised $525,000 in two separate cases of cartel conduct investigated by the Commerce Commission.<\/p>\n
The commission said it is also issuing warnings to another nine courier services for behaviour it believes could be considered cartel conduct under the law.<\/p>\n
“The freight and courier sector has been an area of ongoing concern and focus for us, with the commission taking five court cases in the last 15 years,” Commerce Commission chair Dr John Small said.<\/p>\n
“We expect these penalties and warnings to bring about a change of behaviour in the courier sector.”<\/p>\n
Both Aramex and GoSweetSpot earlier admitted to entering into contracts that allocated customers between themselves and a competitor. Aramex also admitted to including fixed prices in its contract. The breaches were separate and the contract agreements were not with one another.<\/p>\n
Dr Small said it was vital the courier sector remains highly competitive and free of behind-closed-doors agreements.<\/p>\n
“This outcome sends a strong message that it will not be tolerated,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Companies engaging in cartel conduct should expect to be on the receiving end of enforcement action.”<\/p>\n