Thousands of hotels across Europe are preparing to take legal action against Booking.com, alleging that the online travel giant has engaged in abusive and anti-competitive practices. The move could spark one of the largest collective lawsuits in the hospitality sector.
What’s Behind the Dispute?
The hotels claim that Booking.com has imposed restrictive contracts, including clauses that prevent them from offering better rates on their own websites or rival platforms. Many argue this stifles competition and forces them into unfavourable terms.
Key Allegations Include:
- Price Parity Clauses: Hotels say they are barred from offering lower prices elsewhere.
- High Commission Fees: Some report fees of up to 30%, squeezing profit margins.
- Lack of Transparency: Concerns over how rankings and visibility are determined.
Potential Industry Impact
If successful, the lawsuit could force major changes in how online travel agencies operate, potentially leading to more competition and fairer terms for smaller hotels. Legal experts suggest this could set a precedent for similar cases globally.
The case is expected to be filed in the coming months, with hoteliers from Spain, France, Italy, and Germany among the leading plaintiffs.
