A brief statement to the London Stock Market this evening has confirmed that Rightmove will, after all, carry OpenRent listings in future, following an agreement over fees.
There was speculation a deal would be struck, despite a separate statement by Rightmove two days ago saying OpenRent listings would be removed from the portal on September 1.
OpenRent contributes some 8% of Rightmove lettings listings, so its loss – had it happened – would have been one of the biggest blows to the Number One portal in recent years; the very threat of it prompted Rightmove to reassure shareholders that its long-term profit and revenue forecasts remained in place.
The latest Rightmove statement says: “Further to the announcement on 6th August, Rightmove announces that OpenRent has entered into a new membership agreement. “Our guidance for the year remains as stated at our H1 2024 results.”