“This former employee’s actions — which violated IFF policy and legal guidance — are not tolerated,” the statement read. “We stand firm in our commitment to ethical conduct and adherence to the law.”
The commission’s antitrust investigation into the fragrance industry is ongoing. IFF assured full cooperation with the relevant authorities as the probe continues.
EU Fines IFF €15.9M for Deleting WhatsApp Messages : International Scope of the Investigation
Following the commission’s inspections, Switzerland’s competition authority named the companies involved and announced an international probe in collaboration with enforcers in Europe, the U.S., and the U.K. In addition to IFF, Swiss authorities identified Givaudan SA, Firmenich SA, and Symrise AG as part of the investigation. The probe focuses on concerns over coordinated pricing, restrictive supply agreements, and limited production of fragrance ingredients, which are used in a variety of goods, from household items to personal care products.
U.S. Lawsuits and Preservation of Evidence
Several U.S. lawsuits have been filed since the investigation was made public, with buyers alleging they overpaid due to the companies’ antitrust violations. The fragrance companies have moved to dismiss these claims, arguing they are based solely on the existence of government probes.
