Guess Probed by EU Amid Clampdown on Cross-Border Sales Curbs

Guess? Inc. faces a formal European Union antitrust investigation over suspicions the clothing manufacturer and retailer may be thwarting cross-border sales to potential consumers.

The European Commission will examine Guess’ distribution agreements and practices to determine whether they violate EU competition rules that allow consumers in the bloc to purchase from any retailer authorized by a manufacturer, including across national borders.

“One of the key benefits of the EU’s single market is that consumers can shop around for a better deal,” EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said June 6 in an emailed statement. Officials will check Guess is “playing by ...