(MENAFN) Energy drink maker Red Bull has been raided by EU antitrust investigators over suspicions that it abused its dominance in the energy drinks market. The EU Commission officials visited Red Bull's premises on Monday to carry out unannounced inspections. Red Bull said in a statement that it would work with the officials on all matters that concern them, but declined to comment further on the matter.

The energy drinks market is wildly popular, and Red Bull is one of the leading players in the industry. The EU's executive arm did not name the company that was raided, but it confirmed that its teams carried out inspections at the premises of a company active in the energy drinks sector in various member states. It also said that competition authorities of each member state affected had joined the investigators in conducting the raids.

The investigation is part of the EU's efforts to ensure fair competition in the market and prevent companies from abusing their dominant positions to stifle competition. The energy drinks market has seen significant growth in recent years, with many new players entering the market to compete with established brands like Red Bull. However, concerns have been raised about the marketing tactics used by some companies, which have been accused of targeting young people with aggressive advertising campaigns.

Red Bull has been the subject of antitrust investigations in the past, with regulators in several countries looking into the company's business practices. In 2014, the company agreed to pay $13 million to settle a lawsuit that accused it of falsely advertising that its drinks could improve performance and concentration.

The investigation into Red Bull's business practices is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what the outcome will be. However, the raid by EU antitrust investigators is a signal that the EU is committed to ensuring fair competition in the energy drinks market and preventing companies from abusing their dominant positions.

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