The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has fined JD Sports after it admitted to fixing the prices of Rangers FC merchandise.
Following an investigation into the incident, the CMA concluded that JD Sports, along with Elite Sports and Rangers Football Club, broke competition law by fixing the prices of replica shirts and other products between September 2018 and July 2019.
JD Sports has been fined £1.485m, while Elite Sports has been fined £459,000 and Rangers £225,000.
The fine includes a settlement discount for the savings the CMA made as all three parties admitted guilt.
JD Sports said in a statement that it “cooperated fully with the CMA throughout this investigation, including taking swift steps to apply for leniency and agreeing to settle the investigation”.
The sports fashion retailer added that it would not be appealing the penalty and that no senior directors or management were involved in the incident.
CMA executive director of enforcement Michael Grenfell said: “At a time when many people are worried about the rising cost of living, it is important that football fans are able to benefit from competitively priced merchandise.
“Instead, Elite, JD Sports and, to some extent, Rangers, worked together to keep prices high. Today’s decision sends a clear message to football clubs and other businesses that illegal anti-competitive collusion will not be tolerated.”
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