The dispute between 30 national hotel associations and the booking platform Booking.com has entered a new phase. According to the European umbrella organization Hotrec, a formal class action was submitted to the Amsterdam District Court on January 30, 2026. The aim is to obtain compensation for hotels that may have suffered financial losses due to the platform’s pricing policies.
Legal Basis and Competition Law
The lawsuit is based on a landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice from September 19, 2024. The court found that Booking.com’s use of “best price clauses”—both broad and narrow versions—violated EU competition law. These clauses prevented hotels from offering lower prices on their own websites or other channels than on Booking.com. . Hotrec argues that these practices restricted price competition, weakened direct sales, and kept commission rates at consistently high levels for years.
How the Class Action Is Organized in the Netherlands
The interests of affected hotels are being represented in Amsterdam by a Dutch foundation. The initial filing already includes several thousand hotels from across Europe. The initiative is supported by Hotrec and more than 30 national hotel associations. Throughout 2026, the claim is expected to be expanded to include additional hotels that were impacted.
Focus on Past Damages and Future Market Conditions
While the current legal action focuses on compensation for past harm, Hotrec emphasizes its broader significance for the future of the digital marketplace. The organization aims to continue working with online platforms and policymakers to ensure fair and transparent competition. For now, Hotrec has stated that it will not comment further on the ongoing proceedings in the Netherlands.
Hotrec represents 46 national associations from 35 countries and serves as the voice of Europe’s hotels, restaurants, and cafés.
