Amazon has been fined 10 million euros by the Italian Competition and Market Authority (AGCM) for unfair business practices. AGCM stated that a certain practice constrained consumers’ free will through deceit and encouraged them to shop more than necessary. Here’s the deception involved…
Amazon fined 10 million Euros by Italian AGCM
The penalty was imposed because Amazon misled consumers into choosing “periodic purchase” instead of “one-time purchase.” According to AGCM, Amazon guided consumers to select “periodic purchase” with pre-set options on the products sold on its website.
This was applicable to both products sold by Amazon and those on Amazon Marketplace. The authority considered this practice as an unfair act that affected consumers’ free commercial choices. Amazon announced that it would challenge this decision and appeal. The company argued that its “Subscribe and Save” program allows customers to receive products regularly while saving money and time.
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However, AGCM claimed that this practice was not clearly presented to consumers, resulting in misdirection. As part of the penalty, Amazon will provide a 10-euro gift card to customers mistakenly charged for the “Premium” delivery mode and who complained to customer service during 2023.
The company also plans to pursue legal avenues regarding AGCM’s decision. Amazon’s conduct suggests that it needs to review its commercial practices and better protect consumer rights.
This fine indicates that large e-commerce platforms like Amazon must increase their accountability to consumers. For consumers, being aware of such practices and exercising caution when making purchasing decisions is crucial. Do you think this fine is justified? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments section below.
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