The Italian Competition Authority’s recent settlement has put the spotlight on two Amazon group companies, which were fined 10 million euros for unfair business practices.
Amazon was found responsible for a practice consisting of pre-selecting the periodic purchase option for a wide range of products. This default setting severely limited consumers’ freedom of choice.
The tactic implemented was considered a violation of consumers’ right to free choice. In addition, there was evidence of a lack of professional diligence on Amazon’s part in designing online interfaces related to purchasing processes.
Initially, the practice of pre-selecting fast delivery for a fee was also challenged during the investigation. However, Amazon proposed commitments to resolve the issue, pledging to pre-select only the free delivery option in the future.
The AGCM’s order highlights the importance of ensuring a transparent online shopping environment for consumers, and emphasizes the responsibility of e-commerce platforms to comply with competition and unfair trade practices regulations.
