The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has taken a firm stance against Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited and Nigerian Bottling Company Limited for breaching consumer rights.
Following an investigation initiated in June 2019, the FCCPC discovered that the companies had transitioned their Coke brand to non-nutritive sweeteners without adequately informing consumers.
In a statement released on Friday, the FCCPC highlighted that Coca-Cola and NBC had repeatedly violated the FCCPA by failing to be transparent and disclose changes to their products.
“The commission expressed its conviction based on evidence that the companies had not met their obligations regarding transparency and clear disclosure to consumers.
“Coca-Cola and NBC have made more spirited efforts at other interventions to address the regulatory concerns than measures to ensure compliance, and discharge from the regulatory process,” the FCCPC stated.
The FCCPC emphasised that the companies had shown more effort in addressing regulatory concerns than ensuring compliance with the regulatory process.
The Final Order issued by the FCCPC on July 29, 2024, found Coca-Cola and NBC guilty of misleading trade descriptions, unfair marketing tactics, and deceptive trade practices.
While the question of abuse of dominance and the penalty amount remains pending, the commission reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumers from unfair and deceptive business practices.
In response to the regulatory action, the FCCPC emphasized the importance of companies adhering to regulatory standards, prioritising transparency, and safeguarding consumer welfare.
