CCI dismisses unfair biz complaint against Inox, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages

The CCI has dismissed a complaint alleging unfair trade practices against multiplex chain operator Inox and Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages, the bottling arm of Coca Cola in India, with respect to selling of beverages in multiplexes.

There was no violation of Section 3 of the Competition Act that pertains to anti-competitive agreements, the CCI observed while disposing of the matter.

The ruling came on a complaint filed by Telangana-based Vijay Gopal who alleged that Inox has colluded with Coca Cola by entering into exclusive supply/sale agreement to sell water/beverages within the multiplexes at higher prices.

Besides, the complainant alleged that consumers are forced to buy essential goods like water in multiplexes, and therefore there exists an implicit tie-in arrangement which is prohibited under the Competition Act.

By entering into such agreements, the firms violated Section 3 of the Competition Act, the complainant alleged.

With regard to the agreements between the two firms, CCI