Leboncoin Pursues Google for Nearly a Billion Euros in Online Advertising Dispute
Paris, France – July 22, 2025 – In a significant development within the online advertising landscape, Leboncoin, France’s leading classifieds platform, has officially filed a lawsuit against Google, seeking substantial damages in excess of €952 million. The claim, detailed in a recent report by Presse-Citron, centers on allegations of unfair competition and abuse of dominant market position by the tech giant within the online advertising sector.
Leboncoin’s legal action, lodged with the relevant authorities, asserts that Google has engaged in practices that have unfairly disadvantaged Leboncoin and other online businesses. While specific details of the claims are still emerging, it is understood that the dispute revolves around Google’s control and alleged manipulation of online advertising tools and markets, particularly concerning search advertising and ad tech services.
For years, Leboncoin has been a cornerstone of the French digital economy, facilitating millions of transactions across various categories, from used goods and real estate to automotive and job postings. The platform relies heavily on effective online advertising to connect buyers and sellers and maintain its prominent market position.
The lawsuit suggests that Leboncoin believes Google’s practices have either directly or indirectly hindered its ability to effectively advertise its services and reach its target audience, potentially through opaque algorithms, preferential treatment of its own services, or excessive fees. The substantial sum sought by Leboncoin underscores the perceived gravity of these alleged infringements and the significant financial impact it claims to have suffered.
This legal challenge arrives at a time when scrutiny of Big Tech’s market power and business practices is intensifying globally. Regulators and competitors alike are increasingly examining how dominant platforms leverage their position to influence competition and consumer choice. Leboncoin’s move against Google is therefore likely to be closely watched by other players in the digital advertising space and by competition authorities.
A spokesperson for Leboncoin, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing legal proceedings, stated, “We believe in fair and open competition. Our action is intended to address what we perceive as systemic issues that affect the entire online advertising ecosystem. We are committed to ensuring a level playing field for all businesses operating in the digital realm.”
Google has yet to issue a formal public statement regarding the specifics of Leboncoin’s lawsuit. However, the company has historically maintained that its advertising services are competitive and benefit businesses by providing efficient ways to reach consumers. It is anticipated that Google will vigorously defend its practices in court.
The outcome of this substantial legal claim could have far-reaching implications for the online advertising industry in France and potentially across Europe, influencing how search engines and ad tech providers operate and setting precedents for future competition disputes. As the legal process unfolds, further details are expected to become available.
Publicité en ligne : Leboncoin veut faire payer Google et demande 952 millions d’euros
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Presse-Citron published ‘Publicité en ligne : Leboncoin veut faire payer Google et demande 952 millions d’euros’ at 2025-07-22 09:46. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.