PetrolWorld reported that the two firms mixed unleaded fuel with an additive to make it possible for use in older generation engines, similar to the Universal 95 (U-95) fuel.
PKN Orlen is reported to have started using the blended-fuel in place of U-95, supported by Grupa Lotos. Poland’s regulatory authority Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (Uokik) fined PKN Orlen PLN4.5 million and Lotos PLN1 million respectively for a contract agreed upon by the two firms.
The contract reportedly prevents either of the firms from dominating the market for U-95 in the case of one of them withdrawing from the distribution of the fuel, according to PetrolWorld.
According to a Uokik statement, the fine was slapped after it was found that the contract between PKN Orlen and Grupa Lotos will have a negative impact on the prices of U-95 and also have a direct influence on the market.
