The Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) has launched an investigation into seven packaging companies, most of which are located in the Bologna district. The probe concerns an alleged anti-competitive agreement aimed at restricting the mobility of specialized workers within the labor market—a practice known as a ‘no-poach’ or ‘non-solicitation’ agreement.

SOURCE OF THE COMPLAINT

It all began with an anonymous report submitted on March 3, 2025, through the Antitrust Authority’s whistleblowing platform. According to the allegations, several companies reportedly agreed not to hire ‘validators’ of automatic machinery who had previously worked for another of the firms involved.

This alleged anti-competitive agreement does not concern prices or products, but rather the functioning of the specialized labor market—a field that has remained largely unexplored until now in terms of antitrust practices.

WHO ARE THE VALIDATORS

Validators are specialized technicians who certify the correct operation of automatic machinery. Their signature is indispensable for placing products on the market, making this role one of the most strategic and sought-after in the industry.

ECM’S CONTRIBUTION

We believe it is essential to evaluate not only the robustness of the accompanying technical documentation but also full compliance with minimum safety requirements and current regulations.

It is essential to keep in mind that this figure bears all the resulting legal responsibilities. Should this role coincide with the signatory of the EC Declaration of Conformity, the liability doubles: this document, in fact, constitutes the formal act that guarantees the intrinsic safety of the machinery and the entire production lines.

In this scenario of high regulatory complexity, ECM stands out as the partner of choice. Thanks to our founding values of impartiality, independence, and integrity as an Inspection and Certification Body, we offer the necessary support for rigorous compliance management. To date, our expertise has been chosen by leading industrial players on both a national and international scale.