The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has identified that consumers are facing price shifts when booking vacation trips with three package tour providers, preventing them from booking at the initially presented price. ACM has taken action against these providers to ensure prices are presented correctly and consistently.

ACM emphasizes the importance of consumers being able to compare prices easily and accurately, highlighting that the first price shown should be the actual price for booking the trip, including all mandatory costs. This transparency allows consumers to make informed decisions and compare offers effectively.

In response to these issues, ACM has imposed orders with penalty payments on three tour providers to enforce the correct presentation of prices and prevent misleading practices in the travel industry.

ACM's investigation into travel prices revealed that 11 out of 12 package tour providers were incorrectly presenting mandatory additional costs. Following the investigation, all 12 companies have now adjusted their pricing practices to include all necessary costs.

ACM stresses that consumers should have confidence that the initial price presented is the price they can book the trip for, even if additional details are provided. Any significant price changes during the booking process can be considered misleading and harmful to consumers, leading to potential financial losses and unfair competition.