E-commerceE-commerce
The Dutch competition regulator ACM is investigating whether Bol.com has engaged in unfair market practices. For example, other companies complain that their products have less visibility in the online store.
According to the Dutch regulator, there are signals that Bol.com, which is based in Utrecht, is favoring itself and certain entrepreneurs at the expense of other sellers on the platform.
The ACM does not mention the name of Bol.com itself, but speaks of an investigation into “an online platform”. Bol.com itself confirms that it has received questions from the watchdog about the way in which it has set up its platform for sales partners.
The webshop, part of the Ahold Delhaize group, not only sells many items itself, but also allows other sellers on its platform. By 2022 there would be 50,000 external sellers. These would account for half of the turnover.
Several of these sales partners have now complained to the ACM that their offer is less visible in the store, even if they offered the best price.
The purpose of the investigation is to find out whether Bol.com is actually violating the law. If that is the case, ACM can intervene with a fine or order subject to periodic penalty payments. Bol.com says it will respond to the regulator’s questions. (belga)
