PANINI - ITALIAN SOCCER-PLAYERS ASSOCIATION (AIC) (Start of full phase investigation)
PRESS RELEASE
The Italian Competition Authority has initiated a proceeding against the Italian Soccer-players Association (AIC) and Panini Spa to investigate the contracts which were stipulated in 1992 and 1995 between AIC and Panini in order to produce and distribute albums for the collection of soccer cards. The contract stipulated in 1992 created a disadvantageous position for Panini's rivals since it prevented them from carrying out promotional activities during the month of January, which is the period of greater sale of soccer cards. The contract stipulated in 1995 binds AIC to sell to Panini the exclusive rights for the management of the initiatives aimed at using the soccer cards for a period of three years. These exclusive rights and the particular conditions of favour which are enjoyed by Panini can constitute a general advantage for this company in the market of the collectionabilia, where Panini holds an uncontested leadership position. Total sales in this market are approximately 120 billion lira, 40 billion of it derive from the sale of soccer cards. Furthermore, since the soccer players generate great interest and enjoy a substantial popularity with the purchasers of soccer cards, the importance of the market share held by Panini is even greater than what can be initially estimated.
In light of these reasons, the agreements between AIC and Panini, which could have as their object or effect the restriction of competition, are alleged to violate Section 2 of Law no. 287/90.