The Greek Development Ministry has imposed fines totaling €5.5 million on eight multinational companies following an extensive audit of 26 major firms.
The penalties, announced on Wednesday, were issued under Article 54 of Law 5045/2023 for violations identified in 191 out of 443 inspected product codes.
Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos approved the fines based on recommendations from the Interagency Market Control Unit (DIMEA), emphasising the government’s commitment to market transparency and consumer protection.
The companies fined, which have been notified as per legal requirements, include prominent names across various sectors:
- S.K. Johnson Greece (Cleaning): €267,100
- Henkel Hellas (Personal Hygiene & Care Items): €286,000
- Elais Unilever Hellas (Cleaners & Personal Hygiene Items): €516,000
- Colgate Palmolive Hellas Commercial (Personal Hygiene & Care Items): €535,000
- FAGE Greece Milk Industry (Yogurt & Cheese): €924,000
- Jacobs Douwe Egberts GR Ltd (Coffees): €1,000,000
- Friesland Campina Hellas S.A. (Yogurt): €1,000,000
- Johnson & Johnson Hellas Consumer Products (Personal Hygiene & Care Items): €1,000,000
The ministry’s initiative aims to ensure compliance with market regulations and safeguard Greek consumers from unfair practices. Further inspections are expected as part of the ongoing crackdown on violations.