Germany: Closed Bundeskartellamt investigation into Deutsche Bahn for alleged abuse of market power regarding mobility platforms

On 26 June 2023, the German Competition Authority (Bundeskartellamt) concluded its investigation into rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) for alleged abuse of its market power in relation to mobility platforms. In particular, the Bundeskartellamt found that third-party mobility platforms rely on integrating the DB’s services and data for effective competition. More specifically, the DB’s contractual clauses on advertising bans, vertical price specifications, discounts, pricing, and commissions for carrying out the payment process restrict competition for third-party mobility platforms. The Bundeskartellamt has ordered the DB to adopt several measures to correct its conduct, including data sharing, and allowing mobility platforms to use their own discount campaigns, among others.