The Rules on EU & UK Vertical Agreements & EU Block Exemption Explored

Introduction

Understanding the EU and UK competition rules on vertical agreements is essential for any company involved in distributing products in Europe whether acting as a supplier, wholesaler, or distributor.

This webinar will explore the main changes introduced by the reforms in 2022 and how best to navigate them as well as providing an update on recent competition law developments in this space.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• EU & UK Legal Framework refresher: Introduction to Article 101(1)TFEU and Vertical Agreement Block Exemption (VBER) and Chapter I Competition Act 1998 and Vertical Agreements Block Exemption Order (VABEO)
• Role of block exemptions (safe harbour if criteria met)
• Core similarities between EU & UK rules
• Key Changes in the EU VBER
• Dual distribution
• Online platforms
• Parity obligations
• Expanded scope for shared exclusivity
• Revisiting hardcore restrictions
• Key Changes in UK VABEO: Similarities but key departures
• Dual distribution narrow safe harbour vs EU
• Online intermediation services
• Parity clauses: wider scope for scrutiny
• Shared exclusivity
• Comparative Analysis EU vs UK: Where do rules align and diverge
• Practical compliance challenges for businesses active in both jurisdictions
• How to fit within the safe harbour exemption
• Enforcement trends

This pre-recorded webinar will be available to view from Friday 6th February 2026

Alternatively, you can gain access to this webinar and 1,900+ others via the MBL Webinar Subscription. Please email webinarsubscription@mblseminars.com for more details.