The Administrative Court in Stockholm has upheld the Swedish Competition Authority's decision to fine Everfresh, a wholesale company, SEK 5 million for using unfair trading methods in the agricultural and food production chain. This is the first case under the Swedish Act on the Prohibition of improper trade methods in this sector.

The Swedish Competition Authority found that Everfresh had delayed payments to its suppliers, impacting their liquidity. The court agreed with the Authority's assessment, emphasizing the seriousness of the violation and the need to prevent such practices.

Everfresh, part of the Dole plc group, had not adjusted its payments to comply with the law despite being informed by the Swedish Competition Authority. The investigation revealed numerous instances of late payments, leading to the imposition of the SEK 5 million fine.

The Administrative Court rejected Everfresh's appeal, stating that the company's conduct constituted a serious violation of the law. The court found no grounds to reduce the fine imposed by the Swedish Competition Authority, marking a significant decision in enforcing fair trading practices.