Competition law and labour markets – looking beyond no-poach and wage-fixing agreements

In recent years, competition authorities have ramped up their scrutiny of labour markets, treating agreements like no-poach and wage-fixing as serious offences. The briefing dives into how these developments intersect with the increasing demand for skilled workers and the ongoing investigations across various sectors.

Key Points

  • Agreements not to hire each other’s workers are now viewed as potential cartels by competition authorities.
  • Labour market transparency has increased, with authorities focusing on compliance around no-poach and wage-fixing agreements.
  • Employers must now consider how cross-sector competition for talent affects their compliance obligations.
  • Collective bargaining structures vary by country, necessitating careful legal reviews to avoid antitrust risks.
  • The treatment of non-solicitation clauses and due diligence checks around labour-market implications are becoming crucial in mergers and acquisitions.

Why should I read this?

This article is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of competition law and labour markets. It’s not just about keeping in line with regulations; understanding these shifts can save companies from hefty fines and help them navigate the complexities of hiring in a competitive landscape. Plus, it sheds light on how recent investigations could reshape workplace practices, making it absolutely essential for HR and legal teams to be in the know!