The Danish Competition and Consumer Authority has published the results of a new survey examining Danish companies’ experiences with online marketplaces. The findings reveal significant challenges in understanding platform terms and the criteria governing product visibility.
The questionnaire survey, conducted among 506 Danish companies that use online marketplaces as a sales channel, shows that nearly half of respondents are unsure what determines whether their products are displayed at the top of search results. In addition, more than one in three companies report having experienced changes to marketplace terms and conditions without prior notice.
Widespread Uncertainty About Ranking and Terms
According to Deputy Director General Jacob Schaumburg-Müller, a substantial proportion of Danish businesses find marketplace conditions difficult to interpret. Companies report a lack of clarity regarding ranking mechanisms and describe instances where contractual terms were altered without notice.
The Authority notes that online marketplaces have become an increasingly important distribution channel for Danish companies across sectors, including the hotel industry, media, retail and wholesale trade, and IT services. However, the survey indicates that many businesses struggle to navigate the contractual and operational frameworks governing their presence on such platforms.
Enforcement of P2B Rules
The Danish Competition and Consumer Authority is responsible for enforcing the EU Platform-to-Business (P2B) Regulation, which aims to ensure greater transparency and fairness in digital intermediation services. The rules are designed to protect companies that rely on online marketplaces by requiring clearer terms, transparency in ranking parameters, and safeguards against unfair treatment.
Despite these protections, the Authority observes that not all companies are fully aware of the P2B framework or the rights it confers. The Authority therefore encourages businesses experiencing difficulties with online marketplaces to come forward.
Monitoring Digital Marketplaces
The publication forms part of the Authority’s broader monitoring of developments in digital markets. In addition to enforcement powers, the Authority provides guidance to companies and may engage in dialogue with marketplace operators where necessary.
The full results of the survey are presented in the article “Danish companies’ experiences with the P2B rules,” published by the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority.
While the survey does not constitute an infringement finding, it highlights ongoing transparency and fairness concerns in platform-based commerce and underscores the importance of regulatory oversight in digital markets.