On 1 June 2010, a new Vertical Agreements Block Exemption will come into force, as revised Vertical Restraints Guidelines. The process leading to the adoption of new texts has been highly contentious and has taken much longer than expected. As a result, the new rules will enter into effect almost immediately. It is therefore important for the legal and business communities to understand the practical consequences of the changes reflected in the new rules without delay. The need is particularly acute as these are the competition law texts of most practical importance to business on a day-to-day basis.

As part of this reform, the motor vehicle sector is also set to become subject to the same rules on vertical agreements as other sectors, although they will be supplemented by a specific block exemption and guidelines. Notably, the new Motor Vehicle Guidelines will interpret and expand on the provisions of the Vertical Agreements Block Exemption and Vertical Restraints Guidelines, addressing issues of importance to all sectors.

GCR has arranged this conference to examine in depth the new block exemptions and guidelines.

Speakers include senior lawyers and economists from private practice, the European Commission, national competition authorities and industry, who will analyse the possible effects of the changes on distribution arrangements:

• What is the new position in key areas such as selective and exclusive distribution, resale price maintenance and internet selling?
• How to handle the transition between the old and new rules.
• How to distinguish between high- and low-risk aftermarket restrictions.

This conference provides a unique opportunity to learn about the implications of this new legal framework.

This conference will primarily be of interest to:

• In-house lawyers
• Competition lawyers
• Consultant economists
• Enforcement agencies