The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (the CPRs) have, until recently, governed unfair trading practices when traders deal with consumers – with sanctions that can be criminal in nature. In other words, offences could lead to prosecution and a criminal record.
That has now changed. While many provisions remain the same (or very similar), they are now consolidated under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024.
From 6 April 2025, unfair practices will fall under the remit of the 2024 Act.
Just like the CPRs, the new Act prohibits unfair practices – specifically identifying 32 banned practices that are automatically deemed unfair.
The Act outlines various types of misconduct, including:
- Misleading actions
- Misleading omissions
- Aggressive practices
- Contraventions of professional diligence (i.e., did you take reasonable steps you ought to have done?)
Importantly, the Act also categorises consumers into three types:
- Average consumer – reasonably well-informed, observant, and circumspect.
- Targeted consumer – where a practice is directed at a particular group.
- Vulnerable consumer – those more susceptible due to age, mental or physical health, among other factors.
A comprehensive guide to the new Act is available here: Protection from unfair trading (from April 2025) | Business Companion
We recommend our members take the time to familiarise themselves with these updated requirements to ensure they continue to trade fairly and within the law.
On a related note, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) – which will enforce the 2024 Act alongside Trading Standards Officers – recently reached a £77 million settlement with the motor industry (April 2025).
The penalty was imposed on ten manufacturers and two trade bodies, who illegally agreed not to compete in advertising the recyclability of their vehicles and colluded to avoid paying third parties to recycle end-of-life cars.
Our dealers use us to help them be more Efficient and Profitable!
You can use our Dealer and Lead Management software to integrate all dealership departments, both online and physical ; providing all in-house functions; Invoicing, Stock Management, Accounting and Marketing as well as interfacing for advertising, ecommerce and more.
The manufacturer who reported the conduct avoided penalties under the CMA’s leniency policy.
Full details can be found here: Car industry settles competition law case – GOV.UK
If your business needs help understanding or complying with these new requirements, our legal team is just a phone call away. Our telephone helpline and casework service can guide you through the changes.
