Massive lawsuit launched against Booking.com
The clauses prohibit hotels from offering rooms at lower prices on their own websites, a practice that hotels consider to be illegal. The aim is to prevent 'free-riding', whereby guests find hotels on Booking.com but then book directly through the hotel's website. Hotels cite the European Court's ruling on 19 September 2024, which essentially declared the best price clause illegal.
The court ruled that Booking.com and similar platforms can operate without rules of this kind.
This makes little difference for travellers. However, following the European Union's Digital Markets Act of 2024, Booking.com has abolished these clauses in Europe.
"European hotel owners have long suffered from unfair conditions and excessive costs. It's time to unite and demand a legal remedy," said Alexandros Vassilikos, President of the HOTREC hospitality association.
"This joint initiative sends a clear message that abusive practices in the digital market will not be tolerated by the European hotel industry," he added.
The class action lawsuit aims to secure compensation for damages suffered between 2004 and 2024. Supported by HOTREC and more than 30 national hotel associations, the lawsuit will be heard by a Dutch court and coordinated by the Hotel Claims Alliance.
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