CMA launch new consumer protection regime (Guidance & Webinar to support compliance)

The new consumer protection regime, which is designed to safeguard consumer interests and foster a level playing field for fair-dealing businesses, is now in force.

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 also includes an explicit ban on the posting and commissioning of fake reviews and updates the law on pricing information businesses must show to customers, including a ban on “drip pricing”.

Guidance

CMA intend to take a proportionate approach, supporting businesses to protect customers while minimising compliance burdens. To ensure that businesses have clarity and predictability around implementation of the new regime, the CMA has published an approach to consumer protection. This sets out the approach it will take, including: how they will reflect the framework of pace, proportionality, predictability and process (four “p’s” approach); likely areas of focus; and what stakeholders such as businesses and consumer groups can expect.

Alongside this, the CMA published final guidance on unfair commercial practices and specific guidance on fake reviews. And for businesses and small traders, a short guide on what they need to know about unfair commercial practices.

Webinar

The CMA will be hosting a webinar on Wednesday 23 April from 1000 – 1130, where there will be the opportunity to find out more about the approach to consumer protection. The webinar will cover our approach to the new regime and next steps on further guidance and opportunities for further engagement. There will also be the opportunity to ask the consumer protection leadership team questions on approach and policy. Further details on the event and how to register can be found here.