E-commerce leader Amazon has been hit with a $7.8m fine by the Polish Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) for providing misleading information to customers regarding product availability and delivery times, Reuters reported.
According to the news agency, the fine stems from complaints filed by Polish consumers who experienced delays or cancellations on their orders, despite assurances given at the point of purchase.
The UOKiK specifically took issue with Amazon's use of time counters suggesting a guaranteed delivery window, which the regulator argued did not reflect reality.
"The average consumer has the right to assume that the purchase options, availability and delivery times offered by traders are not misleading," said UOKiK head Tomasz Chrostny in a statement.
Amazon, however, maintains it upholds high delivery standards.
"While the vast majority of our deliveries arrive on time, customers can contact us in the rare event that they experience a delay or order cancellation, and we will make it right," it said in a statement, according to Reuters.
Amazon further emphasised its ongoing cooperation with the UOKiK, highlighting proposed improvements to the customer experience on the Polish Amazon marketplace.
Reuters also noted the company contested the fine, stating it adheres to all legal regulations in its areas of operation and strongly disagrees with the penalty imposed.
This incident highlights the growing focus on consumer protection within the e-commerce industry.
The case serves as a cautionary tale for e-commerce businesses operating in Poland, underlining the importance of providing accurate and reliable information to consumers.
Regulators such as the UOKiK are increasingly scrutinising online retailers to ensure transparency and fair practices throughout the customer journey.
Yesterday (27 March), the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority concluded its investigation into ASOS, Boohoo, and Asda, focusing on the accuracy of their environmental claims.
The companies have committed to ensuring that all green claims are precise, unambiguous, and not misleading.
