April 25, 2025: The findings of a probe into alleged price-fixing among major lead battery manufacturers are expected within a few weeks, according to the owner of one of the companies accused.

Batteries International revealed in December 2023 that EU competition chiefs had accused Clarios, Exide Technologies, Banner, Rombat, Fiamm Energy Technology and its predecessor Elettra of possible collusion to fix starter battery prices, aided by trade association EUROBAT.

Now Rombat owner, Metair Investments, has revealed in its annual results published on March 26 that “latest information is that a decision could be made just before the European summer”.

Metair said due to the uncertainty in quantifying and determining the timing of any potential fine, the matter continues to be treated as a contingent liability at balance sheet date.

A European Commission spokesperson indicated to Batteries International on January 13 that there was “no legal deadline to complete antitrust inquiries into anticompetitive conduct”.