The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA) has brought significant changes to UK consumer law, which are being implemented in stages.
Key changes regarding enforcement and unfair commercial practices came into effect on 6 April 2025. These changes grant the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) new direct enforcement powers and update the list of banned unfair commercial practices.
Key changes include the following:
• CMA Enforcement Powers:
The CMA can now directly enforce consumer law without going to court and can issue fines of up to 10% of a business’s turnover for breaches.
• Updated Unfair Commercial Practices:
The Act updates the list of banned practices, including those related to fake online reviews and “drip pricing” (presenting a price that doesn’t include all mandatory fees).
• Enforcement:
Enforcement will be simpler and faster, with the CMA able to investigate business conduct, issue fines, and order redress for consumers.
Businesses need to be aware of their new obligations under the DMCCA, including the updated list of banned unfair commercial practices. This will require a review of existing advertising practices to ensure compliance with the new rules, particularly regarding ‘drip pricing’, fake reviews, and an understanding of the CMA’s new enforcement powers and the potential for fines. The CMA has provided guidance to help businesses understand their obligations, which can be found via GOV.UK.
Remember, our members have access to legal advice to help navigate these changes. If you need help reviewing your compliance, just give us a call.
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