Amazon promises to adjust interface to show second seller

Amazon has promised the European Commission to change the interface of its webshop so that it doesn’t seem like there is only one option in the Buy Box on the site. If there is a second option that differs in price or delivery, it will also be listed from now on.

It is still unknown when Amazon will implement the change. The adjustment should make Amazon less powerful in its own store, because customers will then see the alternatives more quickly. The Buy Box with the single option was one of the things the European Commission investigated.

The adjustment in the interface is one of the concessions Amazon makes according to the European Commission. Amazon also promises to no longer use data about product sales to develop products itself. For example, Amazon regularly copies successful products under its own Basics brand, after which it offers them for a lower price, thus abusing its power as a platform to develop and sell products.

In addition, Amazon promises to open Prime more to offers, without additional conditions. Until now, Amazon has imposed conditions on the method of delivery in order to be able to make an offer to Prime customers. So that will change.

The European Commission asks those involved whether they think the concessions go far enough. They have until September 9 to make their vision known. If the Commission agrees, the Amazon investigations will stop. These investigations can lead to a fine of up to 10 percent of the annual turnover of the group.