La intermediazione on-line e la disciplina della concorrenza: i servizi di viaggio, soggiorno e svago

L'articolo esamini i profili giuridici dei sistemi on line di prenotazione alberghiera, di trasporto e ristorazione, alla luce sia di numerosi interventi di autorità europee della concorrenza sia della qualificazione giuridica del rapporto con l'utente e la disciplina di tutela del consumatore

The article analyses the growing role of on-line intermediaries in travel, accommodation and leisure services and the concerns that have arisen under competition law. In particular the clauses which tie service providers (hotels, restaurants, airlines etc.) to the intermediaries are discussed in the light of several cases brought in front of national competition authorities for alleged abuse of dominant position. The article then examines the uncertain legal relationship between intermediaries and the final client in order to establish if consumer protection laws should and could be extended to such intermediaries and if they may be considered liable for be unfair commercial practices.