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Willowton Group Settles R101 Million in Cooking Oil Price-Fixing Case
The Competition Tribunal has approved a R101-million settlement with Willowton Group, ending an eight-year legal dispute over price-fixing allegations involving its Sunfoil cooking oil brand.
Price-Fixing Investigation Targets Major Edible Oil Companies
The case, launched in 2016, focused on collusion between edible oil producers, including those behind Romi, D’lite, and Sunshine D. Investigators alleged that Willowton Group conspired with Wilmar Continental Edible Oils and Fats, Africa Sun Oil Refineries, Epic Foods, Sea Lake Investments, Unity Food Products, and FR Waring Holdings to manipulate prices.
These companies allegedly agreed on price increases for edible oils, baking fats, and margarine, setting timing and coordinated adjustments as far back as 2007.
While the investigation continues against most implicated firms, FR Waring Holdings has been exempted.
R100 Million for Public Interest Initiatives
As part of the settlement, Willowton Group will pay R1 million upfront and allocate R100 million over five years to social and economic upliftment projects, including:
- R20 million for bursaries supporting disadvantaged students.
- R30 million in food and grocery donations to NGOs and NPOs.
- Funding for economic empowerment initiatives, supporting suppliers from historically disadvantaged backgrounds.
The company will soon publish details on how NGOs can apply for donations in national newspapers, electronic media, and social media.
Legal Battle Ends Without Further Court Action
Willowton Group had previously challenged the Competition Commission’s raid on its premises, filing a review application in the North Gauteng High Court. The case was withdrawn as part of the settlement, bringing the lengthy dispute to a close.
The Competition Commission welcomed the resolution, calling it a pragmatic solution that prevents further costly litigation.
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