Earlier this month, a Berlin court ruled that Google must pay 465 million euros to Idealo for abusing its dominant position in online price comparisons. 😮💰
The judgment covers two decisions: one awarding Idealo, a subsidiary of media group Axel Springer, about 465 million euros, and another granting 107 million euros to Producto, another German price comparison site.
Idealo had originally sought 3.3 billion euros, accusing Google of market abuse between 2008 and 2023. While they fell short of their claim, the ruling marks a major win for competitors challenging Big Tech's power.
Albrecht von Sonntag, co-founder of Idealo, said: ‘We will continue to fight — because market abuse must have consequences and must not become a lucrative business model that pays off despite fines and damages payments.’
Google rejects the court's decision and plans to appeal. The company argues that changes made in 2017 to level the playing field were successful, noting that price comparison sites using its Shopping Unit have jumped from 7 to over 1,550 across Europe. 🚀
Both parties can still appeal, so the final outcome is pending. But this landmark decision sends a clear message: even the biggest tech players aren’t above the rules. 🔍✨
Reference(s):
Court says Google must pay German price comparison platform 465m euros
cgtn.com
