Following an investigation, the authority found that Alten Si-Techno Romania, Akkodis Romania, Automobile-Dacia, Bertrandt Engineering Technologies Romania, Expleo Romania, Fev Ece Automotive, Renault Technologie Roumanie and Segula Technologies Romania agreed not to compete for recruiting and hiring each other's qualified workforce in automotive production and related engineering and technical consulting services. The companies also agreed not to recruit human resources from each other without prior consent.

The largest fine of €16.02 million was imposed on Automobile-Dacia, while Renault Technologie Roumanie received a €9.09 million penalty. The remaining companies were fined between €275,000 and €2.09 million each.

"This is the first case where we sanction such anti-competitive practices, where companies do not compete for attracting specialised workforce," said Bogdan Chirițoiu, President of the Competition Council. "This type of 'no-poaching' behaviour is particularly harmful both for competition, by creating artificial barriers in the market, and for employees whose mobility opportunities are affected."

One company applied for leniency during the investigation, providing documents and information that significantly contributed to proving the anti-competitive practice and received a reduction in its fine. Five other companies admitted their involvement and also benefited from reduced sanctions. The investigation was triggered by a complaint received through the Competition Whistleblowers Platform.