Book trade Competition Commission reprimands French publisher Madrigall

According to the Competition Commission, the French publishing group Madrigall is abusing its market power vis-à-vis the Swiss bookseller Payot. It obliges the publisher to allow Payot to import books directly at lower prices.

The French publishing group Madrigall is refusing to allow the Swiss bookseller Payot to purchase its books at the usual conditions in France, the Competition Commission (ComCo) announced on Thursday. It is obliging Madrigall to allow Payot to import directly under French conditions.

Madrigall is one of the largest publishing groups in France. The company comprises around 15 publishing houses, including Gallimard and Flammarion, as well as well-known publishing brands. Madrigall publishes numerous award-winning authors and bestsellers. Until now, Swiss booksellers have purchased Madrigall books via the official Swiss distribution channel. Payot wanted to import Madrigall's books directly from France. Madrigall charges significantly higher purchase prices than is usual in France.

SDA