Expedia Complains To EU About Google Ahead Of Antitrust Decision

The EU is expected to make a decision on how to proceed in an antitrust investigation of Google after Easter. EU Competition Commissioner Joaquin Almunia said as much earlier this week. That leaves ti...
Expedia Complains To EU About Google Ahead Of Antitrust Decision
Written by Chris Crum
  • The EU is expected to make a decision on how to proceed in an antitrust investigation of Google after Easter. EU Competition Commissioner Joaquin Almunia said as much earlier this week.

    That leaves time for more to complain about Google try to make their cases and influence the decision.

    Reuters reports that Expedia has now filed a formal complaint against Google with the EU. The report quotes Expedia SVP of Government Affairs, Brent Thompson: “The complaint offers evidence of how Google’s conduct harms not only competition, but consumers…Expedia believes that strong action is needed by the European Commission to restore a fair and competitive marketplace in online search that respects consumers’ rights.”

    A complaint from Expedia comes as no surprise. The company has been part of the FairSearch coalition, made up of Google competitors (including Microsoft), since its inception. FairSearch has aimed to impede Google all the while, beginning with the call to block Google’s Acquisition of ITA Software. The acquisition was not blocked. FairSearch recently expanded its presence in Europe.

    The complaint comes shortly after a publicized letter to Almunia from the European Consumers’ Organisation, which voiced similar complaints. Almunia reportedly said this week, “We want to advance in our investigation but we want to advance on a solid basis, not because of a letter or some pressures.”

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