Jacques-Antoine Granjon

In 2019, tax authorities obtained authorisation to inspect and seize documents at premises linked to Orefa, Vente-privee and Jacques-Antoine Granjon's business circle to seek evidence of possible undeclared activity or effective management in France by the Luxembourg structure. The legality of the operations was subsequently challenged.

State of the evidence

Documented

Following a DGCCRF investigation, Veepee and Jacques-Antoine Granjon were prosecuted for misleading commercial practices. Prosecutors alleged that some discounts advertised between 2014 and 2017 had been calculated using artificially high reference prices.

Attribution

Directly implicated

Course of the proceedings

1. Formally charged — Formal charge before the current outcome

In proceedings brought by Showroomprivé, the Paris Judicial Court cancelled in 2019 a figurative 'vente-privée' trademark filed in 2013, finding that registration had been fraudulent. The decision risked depriving Vente-privee of a trademark asset distinct from the earlier word mark dispute.

Attribution

Direct responsibility

In 2009, Brandalley referred Vente-privee to the Competition Authority, accusing it of restricting access to major brands through exclusivity clauses and abusing a dominant position in online flash sales. The case prompted several appeals.

State of the evidence

Documented

In 2016, a press investigation highlighted Luxembourg companies and shareholdings linked to several Vente-privee executives, including Jacques-Antoine Granjon, particularly involving Orefa. The structure prompted media allegations of tax optimisation or evasion.

Attribution

Personally implicated

In 2013, the Paris Tribunal de grande instance invalidated the 'vente-privee.com' word mark, considering the expression descriptive and lacking distinctiveness when registered. The ruling threatened a central asset of Jacques-Antoine Granjon's company.

Attribution

Direct responsibility