PS12503 - Italian Competition Authority: 2 million fine against Star Italia S.p.A. for unfair commercial practices and unfair clauses
PRESS RELEASE
The company slowed down the execution of bathroom renovation projects and hindered the acknowledgment of consumers' contractual rights in light of the delays. Moreover, the contract contains numerous unfair clauses.
The Italian Competition Authority has fined Star Italia S.p.A. 2 million euros. In fact, the company violated the rules of the Consumer Code on unfair commercial practices and unfair clauses (Articles 20, 24, 25, 33, 35, and 52).
Specifically, the Authority found that Star Italia participated in unfair and aggressive commercial practices by postponing bathroom renovation works despite having received either a deposit or full payment. Furthermore, the company obstructed consumers' ability to exercise their contractual rights by not acknowledging their right to withdraw, and in some instances, refused to terminate the contract due to its own shortcomings.
Ultimately, the Authority identified numerous unfair clauses within the general terms and conditions provided by Star Italia.
Rome, 24 October 2024