Alphabet unit Google will be facing damages claims for up to EUR 25 billion over its digital advertising practices in two suits to be filed in British and Dutch courts in the coming weeks. Google has recently faced scrutiny from antitrust regulators after publishers’ complaints.
The French competition watchdog imposed a EUR 220 million fine on the company last year while the European Commission and its UK peer are investigating whether Google's adtech business gives it an unfair advantage over rivals and advertisers.
Damien Geradin at law firm Geradin Partners said, “It is time that Google owns up to its responsibilities and pays back the damages it has caused to this important industry. That is why today we are announcing these actions across two jurisdictions to obtain compensation for EU and UK publishers.”
Google criticised the imminent lawsuits, saying that it works constructively with publishers across Europe. The company’s spokesperson said, “This lawsuit is speculative and opportunistic. When we receive the complaint, we’ll fight it vigorously.”
The British claim at the UK Competition Appeal Tribunal will seek to recover compensation for all owners of websites carrying banner advertising, including traditional publishers.
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