According to Yelp’s complaint, Google has systematically directed users to its own local results, steering them away from rival platforms like Yelp and cutting into Yelp’s share of local search traffic. This maneuver, Yelp argues, is a clear violation of antitrust laws, as it exploits Google’s “unlawfully maintained” search dominance to protect its own interests while delivering what Yelp claims is an “inferior” local search product.
Google’s Alleged Local Search Monopoly
Yelp’s argument hinges on the idea that Google’s manipulation of local search results has created an artificial barrier that prevents users from reaching competitors’ platforms in the first place. This, Yelp contends, has allowed Google to capture a larger share of the local search advertising market, leaving companies like Yelp in the dust despite offering superior services in some cases.
“Google has leveraged its dominant position in general search to ensure that more local search advertisers purchase local search advertising from Google,” Yelp’s complaint asserts. By allegedly funneling traffic into its own ecosystem, Yelp argues that Google has effectively crippled the ability of rivals to compete on a level playing field.
Yelp Sues Google in Antitrust Case : A Long Time Coming
Yelp’s struggle against Google is nothing new. The two companies have been at odds for years, with Yelp consistently accusing Google of unfair practices in the local search space. However, this lawsuit marks a significant turning point, as Yelp now seeks to hold Google accountable through the courts.
