The European Commission has slapped a €157 million fine on luxury fashion houses Gucci (Italy), Chloé (France), and Loewe (Spain) for engaging in resale price maintenance, violating EU competition rules.

The companies operate in the design, production, and distribution of high-fashion goods, including clothing, leather products, and accessories.

The Commission’s investigation revealed that the three brands restricted their independent retailers, both online and in physical stores, from setting their own retail prices for products designed and sold under their respective labels.

This type of anti-competitive behavior leads to higher prices and fewer choices for consumers.

The total fines — reduced in all three cases due to the companies’ cooperation with the Commission—amounted to over €157 million.