The Antimonopoly Office of the Slovak Republic (AMO) has imposed (3 February) a fine of €675,200 (USD 692,134) on United Classifieds s.r.o. for abusing its dominant position in the online real estate advertising market in Slovakia. The decision, issued on January 22, 2025, addresses anti-competitive practices that the company allegedly engaged in since 2020.
Exclusive Advertising Bundles
The AMO found that United Classifieds applied unfair business conditions to its corporate customers, including real estate agencies, brokers, and developers. Specifically, the company offered advertising only as a “package” across its three main online real estate portals. Customers had no option to select individual portals or customize their advertising packages, forcing them to pay for services they may not have needed.
Restriction of Technical Access
Between 2020 and early 2022, United Classifieds also restricted technical access to its platforms for agencies that used competing software to manage property listings. Instead, the company strongly favored its own software solution, limiting the ability of real estate agencies to automatically import listings. This practice significantly hindered agencies from efficiently managing their listings, increasing operational costs and reducing market competition.
Impact on Competition
These actions not only affected real estate agencies by limiting their technical access and service options but also distorted competition in the online real estate advertising sector. The AMO determined that United Classifieds’ conduct unfairly disadvantaged competitors and restricted consumer choice.
Compliance Order and Appeal Option
In addition to the fine, the AMO has ordered United Classifieds to cease the unlawful conduct and rectify the situation within 90 days of the decision becoming final. However, the company retains the right to appeal within the statutory period, meaning the ruling has not yet entered into force.
A public version of the decision is expected to be released in the coming weeks.
