Denmark – July 1, 2025
A 25-year-long illegal agreement between two rival kiosks on the popular tourist destination of Himmelbjerget has resulted in a fine for Hotel Himmelbjerget, owner of Bjergkiosken, the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority announced today.
Bjergkiosken has been fined 250,000 Danish kroner (approximately $35,600 USD) for its role in a market-sharing cartel with competitor Ugleboden. According to the Authority, the two stalls operated under an illegal agreement from at least 1997 until early 2023, dividing the market between them: Bjergkiosken exclusively sold food and drinks, while Ugleboden, owned by the Committee for the Preservation of Monuments on Himmelbjerget, exclusively sold souvenirs.
The arrangement, in place for over two decades, meant visitors to Himmelbjerget were denied the benefits of competition, including lower prices and more consumer choice.
“This is a textbook example of a cartel,” said Stefan Kobbernagel, Head of Office at the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority. “Although it’s not the largest case, the evidence is very clear, and the violation is serious.”
The case came to light when one of the kiosks approached the authorities and disclosed the agreement. Ugleboden was granted leniency and exempted from a fine under the Competition Act’s provisions for whistleblowers.
The Competition Authority emphasized that leniency remains a key tool in exposing cartels. Businesses that are the first to come forward and meet strict conditions—including ceasing participation and providing substantial evidence—can avoid fines and even imprisonment.
Hotel Himmelbjerget has accepted the fine and acknowledged its role in the violation.
