Vertical Agreements and Competition Law: Status, Changes, Hot Topics

The rise of digitalization, with the consequent increase in online sales and the use of online intermediation services (ever more enhanced in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic), has made the expiration of the Vertical Block Exemption Regulation (“VBER”), in May 2022, the perfect scenario for an in-depth review of the VBER and its accompanying Vertical Guidelines. The proposed review promises to reflect this new market reality and to adapt the framework to the new digital era.

Companies will need to take account the proposed changes, as they will undoubtedly have an impact on their distribution systems and contracts, which will need to be updated and adapted in accordance with the new regime.

In view of the above, this webinar will provide an overview of the current status of the main topics under the VBER, the review process and the main changes the draft reviewed VBER and the Vertical Guidelines propose. In particular: 

• Dual distribution
• Restrictions to online sales
• Exclusive and selective distribution systems
• Dual pricing
• Vertical restraints affecting online platforms
• Parity clauses

En colaboración con: