Grocers Challenge Alko's Legality
The Finnish Food Marketing Association has challenged the authority of Finland's state alcohol monopoly Alko. It has taken its case to the European Union, saying that the monopoly is illegal.
The newspaper Aamulehti reports that the Association has demanded that the European Commission investigate the legality of Alko's hold over the wine and spirits market.
The Association also suspects that Alko has unfairly used its position as the only liquor retailer. In addition, the organisation challenges the logic of the monopoly, saying that consolidating alcohol in the hands of state retailers has not prevented the rise of alcohol-related social ills.
Retailers want to be able to sell wine and strong beer in grocery stores.
The chairman of Alko's board of directors, Ville Itälä, has warned the firm that it may have to prepare to dismantle its monopoly.
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