Uber is a ride-hailing company that has faced a number of allegations of unethical business practices, particularly in regard to its treatment of competition.
These practices can be harmful to consumers and can stifle competition, leading to higher prices and fewer choices for consumers. Some of the specific unethical business practices that Uber has been accused of include:
Price fixing
Uber has been accused of engaging in price fixing by setting prices for its services in coordination with its drivers. This type of behaviour is generally considered unethical and is often illegal, as it can lead to higher prices for consumers and stifle competition.
Predatory pricing
Uber has also been accused of using predatory pricing tactics to drive competitors out of business. Predatory pricing involves setting prices below cost in order to drive competitors out of the market and establish a monopoly. This type of behaviour is generally considered unethical and is often illegal, as it can lead to higher prices for consumers and stifle competition.
Unfair competition
Uber has also been accused of engaging in unfair competition by using its market power to engage in practices that are designed to harm competitors. This can include setting prices below cost in order to drive competitors out of the market or engaging in other tactics that are designed to make it more difficult for competitors to compete.
Anti-competitive behaviour
Uber has also been accused of engaging in anti-competitive behaviour by using its market power to block or hinder competitors from entering the market. This can include using exclusive contracts with drivers or other tactics that are designed to make it more difficult for competitors to enter the market.
Use of Greyball
In 2017, it was revealed that Uber had used a software tool called Greyball to evade law enforcement officials in cities where the company’s services were not yet legal. This led to regulatory investigations and a decline in the company’s reputation.
Overall, Uber has faced a number of allegations of unethical business practices in relation to competition, including price fixing, predatory pricing, unfair competition, and anti-competitive behaviour.
