Fragrance Firms Hit Across Europe in Scent Supply Cartel Probe

Fragrance firms across Europe risk potentially hefty fines after prosecutor raids over concerns companies including Givaudan SA and Symrise AG colluded over price to supply scents and ingredients.

The European Commission carried out the unannounced inspections at the premises of Givaudan, Symrise as well as International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. and Firmenich International SA, whose scents and ingredients are used in household and personal care products.

Swiss, UK and US regulators were involved in the raids and also “sent out formal requests for information to several companies active in the same sector.”

The Swiss Competition Commission and UK’s Competition ...