Surprise Inspection by Competition Commission at Childcare Firm: Probe into Illegal Collusions

A surprise on-site inspection was conducted last Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at a childcare company by the Competition Commission. The inspection is part of an independent investigation into potential vertical collusions. According to the commission’s announcement, conducting on-site inspections does not presuppose that the companies involved have engaged in anti-competitive behavior nor does it predict the outcome of the investigation. Preschool education services represent a significant portion of Greek household expenses. Research indicates that spending on general preschool education accounts for 16.2% of household expenditures on goods and educational services and 0.7% of overall consumer spending in 2023. These costs are estimated to have increased significantly (approximately 35%) during the 2021-2023 period. The Competition Commission, tasked with enforcing competition rules under Law 3959/2011 and Articles 101/102 TFEU, prohibits agreements or practices that restrict competition. It also investigates any abuse of dominant market positions and imposes strict administrative penalties on companies engaging in anti-competitive practices.