Tönnies loses takeover of Vion abattoirs The Premium Food Group is disappointed by the decision of the Cartel Office, which has prohibited the takeover of Vion abattoirs. In an official statement, the company describes the ruling as a bitter setback for farmers in southern Germany, who had hoped for a clear decision for the future. The Cartel Office based its decision on Vion's market leadership in the area of cattle slaughtering in this region. Vion had announced last year that it would withdraw from Germany and put its sites up for sale. While some merger plans have already been approved, the uncertainty for farmers and the entire industry remains palpable. The situation illustrates how important competitive structures are for agriculture and how much market conditions can influence the players.
Volkswagen escapes millions in fines due to forgotten signature In Germany, Volkswagen $VOW3 (+1,05 %) has won a partial victory, but the central data protection complaint remains and could still lead to a possible fine. VW's appeal against this reprimand was not decided as hoped, as the administrative court ruled on the matter. Although two of five warnings issued by the Data Protection Commissioner of Lower Saxony in 2023 were overturned, the decisive reprimand for insufficient data protection information remains in place. Although the ruling is not yet legally binding, VW has the option of lodging an appeal with the Higher Administrative Court. However, the effects on the impending fine can no longer be influenced by the ruling, which increases the uncertainty for the company. VW must now carefully consider how it will deal with the remaining legal challenges and what measures are required to improve its data protection practices.
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