The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has taken action againstCoca-Cola Nigeria Limited and Nigerian Bottling Company Limited for violating consumer rights.
In a statement released on Friday, the FCCPC revealed that it launched an investigation in June 2019 after discovering that the companies had switched their Coke brand to non-nutritive sweeteners without adequately informing consumers of the change.
“The commission, based on the evidence, concluded that Coca-Cola and NBC repeatedly violated the FCCPA, especially regarding transparency and clear disclosure obligations to their customers,” the statement said.
The FCCPC noted that while the companies initially agreed to implement clearer product descriptions and differentiations, they later abandoned this agreement, choosing a business strategy that fell short of regulatory requirements.
“Coca-Cola and NBC have made more efforts to address the regulatory concerns through other means than taking measures to ensure compliance and resolve the regulatory process,” the FCCPC stated.
On July 29, 2024, the FCCPC issued a Final Order finding Coca-Cola and NBC guilty of misleading trade descriptions, unfair marketing tactics, and deceptive trade practices. The commission is yet to address the issue of abuse of market dominance and the extent of the penalties to be imposed.
“We are committed to protecting consumers from unfair and deceptive business practices. Companies must adhere to regulatory standards and prioritize transparency and consumer welfare,” the commission added.
Source: The Punch
