UK Competition Authority

Regulators promote competition across sectors in 2021 to 2022* The CMA’s Annual Concurrency Report shows how competition authorities have helped deliver benefits to households in 2021 to 2022 in the regulated sectors. Competition law in the UK is enforced by the Competition and Markets (...)

CMA helps NHS secure price and supply commitment for cancer drugs* The CMA has worked to ensure that pharmaceutical company Aspen’s commitments to reduce prices for life-saving cancer medicines can be enforced in the UK following its exit from the European Union. The European Commission opened (...)

CMA to investigate ESS’s move to three-year contracts for schools* The CMA is investigating whether education software company ESS is abusing a dominant position to push schools into accepting a new 3-year contract. The investigation will assess concerns around a contract change made by (...)

Offshore drilling merger raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that the merger of Noble and Maersk Drilling could increase operating costs for oil and gas producers in the UK North Sea. In February, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) opened an investigation into the (...)

CMA blocks planned Cargotec / Konecranes merger* The CMA has blocked the proposed merger between Cargotec and Konecranes after its in-depth investigation identified substantial competition concerns. Cargotec and Konecranes both offer a range of container handling equipment and services to (...)

Morrisons purchase raises competition concerns over fuel * CMA finds CD&R’s acquisition of Morrisons could lead to higher fuel prices in 121 locations across the country where both firms own forecourts. In January, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) opened its investigation into (...)

Dar Lighting fined after ignoring warnings on restricting discounts* The CMA has fined Dar Lighting Ltd £1.5 million for breaking competition law by restricting the level of discounts retailers could offer online. The lighting supplier failed to take sufficient action after 2 written warnings (...)

Ritchie Bros and Euro Auctions deal referred for an in-depth investigation* The CMA has referred Ritchie Bros’ planned purchase of Euro Auctions for an in-depth Phase 2 investigation, after finding competition concerns. Ritchie Bros and Euro Auctions are both auction service providers for (...)

Helicopter services deal raises competition concerns* The CMA has provisionally found that CHC’s purchase of Babcock’s oil and gas offshore helicopter transportation services business raises competition concerns. Following an in-depth Phase 2 investigation of this completed acquisition, the (...)

CMA clears Sony’s acquisition of AWAL* The CMA has cleared Sony’s acquisition of AWAL, an ‘artist and label’ (A&L) services provider, following an in-depth merger inquiry. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) referred the merger to an in-depth Phase 2 inquiry in September 2021, after (...)

CMA finds NortonLifeLock purchase of Avast could reduce competition* The CMA has found that NortonLifeLock’s approximately £6bn purchase of Avast raises competition concerns and may now be referred for an in-depth investigation. NortonLifeLock and Avast both offer cyber safety software to (...)

CMA launches investigation into recycling of cars and vans The CMA has launched an investigation into suspected anti-competitive conduct in relation to the recycling of old or written-off vehicles The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has reason to suspect anti-competitive behaviour has (...)

CMA publishes environmental sustainability advice to government* The CMA has published advice on how competition and consumer laws can help meet the UK’s environmental goals, and has outlined plans for a Sustainability Taskforce. Advice suggests clarifying the law on providing environmental (...)

CMA investigates Google and Meta over ad tech concerns* The CMA is taking a closer look at Google and Meta’s conduct over concerns that they hampered competition in markets for online display advertising services. CMA and European Commission launch parallel probes into Google and Meta’s “Jedi (...)

CMA unlocks electric vehicle charging competition for motorway drivers* The CMA has secured commitments from Gridserve which will unlock competition and increase choice of electric vehicle chargepoints on motorways for drivers. Following the launch of its investigation in July 2021, the (...)

CMA open letter to motorway service area operators and electric vehicle chargepoint operators* The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published an open letter to electric vehicle chargepoint operators and motorway service area operators following its investigation into suspected (...)

Tower site sale to address concerns in telecoms merger* Cellnex must sell over 1,000 telecoms tower sites to address competition concerns over its purchase of CK Hutchison’s UK towers. The decision by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) comes after an in-depth Phase 2 investigation (...)

CVS takeover of The Vet raises competition concerns* CVS Group’s completed purchase of The Vet could now be referred for an in-depth investigation after finding that the deal raises competition concerns. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) opened its investigation into CVS Group’s (...)

International agencies put supply chains on notice against collusion* A new working group of international competition authorities has put companies involved in global supply chains on notice not to collude. The working group is made up of competition authorities from the “Five Eyes” nations: (...)

Sports retailers fined almost £5m for breaching CMA order* JD Sports and Footasylum have been fined almost £5 million after breaching the rules around a merger blocked by the CMA. Breaches include the sharing of commercially sensitive information between JD Sports and Footasylum CEOs Failure to (...)

CMA provisionally clears Sony’s acquisition of AWAL* The CMA has provisionally cleared Sony’s acquisition of AWAL, an ‘artist and label’ (A&L) services provider, following an in-depth merger inquiry. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) referred the merger to an in-depth Phase 2 (...)

CMA to keep ‘close eye’ on Google as it secures final Privacy Sandbox commitments* The CMA has accepted a revised offer from Google of commitments relating to its proposed removal of third-party cookies from the Chrome browser (known as the Privacy Sandbox proposals). The CMA has secured (...)

CMA designates Amazon as a grocery retailer to protect suppliers* The CMA has announced that industry rules setting out how grocery retailers should treat their suppliers will now apply to Amazon. Amazon.com, Inc’s (Amazon) increasing activity in the UK groceries’ sector in recent years has led (...)

NVIDIA abandons takeover of Arm during CMA investigation* NVIDIA has abandoned its proposed deal with Arm during the CMA’s in-depth investigation, following its initial finding that the merger could lead to a substantial lessening of competition. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has (...)

CMA fines Meta a second time for breaching enforcement order* Meta has been fined £1.5m after it failed to alert the CMA in advance of key staff leaving the company, which is required by the CMA’s initial enforcement order. It is standard practice for the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) (...)

CMA fines firms over £35m for illegal arrangement for NHS drug* The CMA has fined firms over £35 million for an illegal arrangement in the supply of important NHS prescription anti-nausea tablets. CMA fines firms in relation to an arrangement under which a competitor was paid not to launch a (...)

Anticipated acquisition by Microsoft Corporation of Nuance Communications Inc.* Notice under section 96(2a) of the Enterprise Act 2002 (the Act) published pursuant to section 107(1)(I) of the Act The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) hereby gives notice pursuant to section 96(2A) of (...)

CMA disqualifies pharma director* The CMA has secured the disqualification of a pharmaceutical company director, in connection with his involvement in illegal anti-competitive practices. Pritesh Sonpal – a former director of the pharmaceutical wholesaler Lexon – will be disqualified from taking (...)

UK telecoms tower merger risks higher mobile costs* The CMA has provisionally found  Cellnex’s proposed purchase of CK Hutchison’s telecoms towers would harm competition. Cellnex is an independent supplier of telecommunications infrastructure, currently active across several European countries. (...)

CMA provisionally finds lighting firm illegally banned discounts* The CMA has provisionally found that Dar Lighting Limited has broken competition law by preventing retailers from offering discounts online. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued a Statement of Objections to (...)

Apple and Google duopoly limits competition and choice* The CMA’s interim report into mobile ecosystems suggests that users are losing out because of Apple and Google’s duopoly. Earlier this year, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) launched a probe over concerns that Apple and Google (...)

Dye & Durham’s purchase of TM Group could reduce competition* The CMA has found that Dye & Durham’s purchase of TM Group raises competition concerns and may now be referred for an in-depth investigation. Dye & Durham and TM Group both provide a one-stop property search service to (...)

CMA finds Veolia / Suez merger raises competition concerns* Veolia and Suez are two of the largest suppliers of waste management services to councils and businesses in the UK and global leaders in the sector. The transaction is being reviewed by a number of competition authorities globally. (...)

CMA directs Facebook to sell Giphy* The CMA requires Facebook (which has recently renamed itself ‘Meta’) to sell Giphy, after finding that the deal could harm social media users and UK advertisers. In line with its Phase 2 provisional findings issued in August, the Competition and Markets (...)

CMA secures improved commitments on Google’s Privacy Sandbox* The CMA has secured improved commitments from Google on its proposals to remove third party cookies and other functionalities from its Chrome browser. It has been investigating Google’s proposals since the start of the year due to (...)

Port equipment merger raises competition concerns* The CMA has provisionally found that the proposed merger of Cargotec and Konecranes raises competition concerns in the supply of container handling equipment. Image showing shipping containers with a machine moving them Cargotec and (...)

Helicopter services deal raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that CHC’s completed purchase of Babcock’s oil and gas offshore helicopter business raises competition concerns in the UK. CHC and Babcock’s oil and gas offshore helicopter business (the Babcock Business) both provide (...)

CMA to open up electric vehicle charging competition on motorways* CMA action is paving the way for greater investment, greater choice, and competition on prices for electric vehicle drivers, by opening up competition in the charging sector. CMA Chief Executive says “Healthy competition is key (...)

CMA requires JD Sports to sell Footasylum* The CMA has instructed JD Sports to sell Footasylum after its in-depth investigation identified competition concerns. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that the takeover could lead to a substantial reduction in competition and a (...)

CMA opens investigation into Motorola’s Airwave network* The CMA has opened an investigation into Motorola’s Airwave network, the mobile radio network used by all emergency services in Great Britain. Motorola Solutions Inc.’s (Motorola) Airwave network is the infrastructure and services that (...)

CMA fines Facebook over enforcement order breach* Facebook has been fined £50.5 million for breaching an order imposed by the CMA during its investigation into Facebook’s purchase of Giphy. A mobile phone and laptop both displaying a Facebook log in page It is standard practice to issue an (...)

CMA plans probe into music streaming market* The CMA has announced its intention to launch a market study into music streaming. Following discussion by the CMA Board, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will now carry out work to consider and develop the final scope of the market (...)

S&P-IHS Markit merger to be cleared if concerns overcome* The CMA will clear S&P’s merger with IHS Markit if competition concerns in certain commodity price assessments are addressed. S&P Global Inc. (S&P) is a worldwide supplier of credit ratings, commodity price assessments, (...)

CMA welcomes government proposals on new powers* The CMA has responded to the government’s proposals to enhance its ability to tackle breaches of competition and consumer law and empower the Digital Markets Unit (DMU). Changes would see the CMA given the power to declare companies in breach of (...)

Acquisition of Sepura plc by Hytera Communications Corporation Limited: revised national security undertakings* Consultation description The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Kwasi Kwarteng MP, announced on 28 September 2021 that he is proposing to accept (...)

Anticipated acquisition by Facebook, Inc. of Kustomer, Inc.* Summary of the CMA’s decision on relevant merger situation and substantial lessening of competition ME/6920/20 Please note that [x] indicates figures or text which have been deleted or replaced in ranges for reasons of commercial (...)

Sony’s purchase of AWAL raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that Sony’s completed purchase of AWAL raises competition concerns, following a Phase 1 investigation. Deal could lead to worse terms for artists and less innovation in the music sector The music industry is evolving, with (...)

Public interest intervention notice issued over proposed acquisition of The Perpetuus Group by Taurus International Ltd and others* A notice was issued today relating to the proposed acquisition of The Perpetuus Group by Taurus International Ltd and others. On 5 September, acting on official (...)

Competition concerns remain over JD Sports merger* The CMA has provisionally found JD Sports’ takeover of Footasylum could lead to a worse deal for shoppers, after reassessing the merger. Following the CMA’s final decision to block the merger between JD Sports and Footasylum in May 2020, JD (...)

CMA finds competition concerns with NVIDIA’s purchase of Arm* The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that NVIDIA’s purchase of Arm raises serious competition concerns. A summary of the CMA’s report, which was sent to the Secretary of State (SoS) for the Department for Digital, (...)

Facebook’s takeover of Giphy raises competition concerns* The CMA has provisionally found Facebook’s merger with Giphy will harm competition between social media platforms and remove a potential challenger in the display advertising market. Facebook app is being selected on a mobile phone. The (...)

CMA accuses pharma firms of illegal pricing* The CMA has provisionally found that Pfizer and Flynn abused their dominant positions to overcharge the NHS for vital anti-epilepsy drugs, after reassessing the case. Having gathered further evidence and after carefully assessing the facts, the (...)

CMA fines pharma firm over pricing of crucial thyroid drug* The CMA has imposed over £100 million in fines after Advanz inflated the price of thyroid tablets, causing the NHS and patients to lose out. Advanz increased the price of thyroid tablet packs from £20 in 2009 to £248 in 2017 – an (...)

CMA finds drug companies overcharged NHS* The CMA has imposed fines totalling over £260 million for competition law breaches in relation to the supply of hydrocortisone tablets. Prices of life-saving hydrocortisone tablets rose by over 10,000%. Pharma firms bought off potential rivals to avoid (...)

Cellnex and CK Hutchison deal raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that Cellnex’s proposed purchase of CK Hutchison’s UK passive telecoms infrastructure assets raises competition concerns. Cellnex is an independent supplier of telecommunications infrastructure, currently active across (...)

CMA consults on market investigation into emergency services’ mobile radio network* The CMA is consulting on whether to launch a market investigation into Motorola’s Airwave network – the mobile radio network used by all emergency services in Great Britain. The move follows concerns expressed (...)

CMA to scrutinise Apple and Google mobile ecosystems* The CMA has launched a market study into Apple’s and Google’s mobile ecosystems over concerns they have market power which is harming users and other businesses. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is taking a closer look at whether (...)

CMA to have key oversight role over Google’s planned removal of third-party cookies* Following an investigation, the CMA has secured commitments from Google to address concerns about Google’s proposal to remove third-party cookies on Chrome. The CMA is to take up a role in the design and (...)

CMA investigates Facebook’s use of ad data* The CMA is investigating whether Facebook might be abusing a dominant position in the social media or digital advertising markets through its collection and use of advertising data. Facebook login on a mobile and laptop screen The Competition and (...)

Reassessment of FNZ/GBST deal confirms competition concerns* The CMA has found that the purchase of GBST by rival FNZ could lead to poorer service and higher prices following a careful reassessment of the deal. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) reassessed the deal, following its (...)

Breaking competition law: construction cartel in groundworks* Lessons learnt from the CMA’s investigation into 3 major suppliers of groundworks products to the construction industry after they broke competition law. In 2020, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) fined 2 businesses, Vp (...)

CMA welcomes Tribunal judgment in Sabre case* The CMA welcomes today’s Competition Appeal Tribunal judgment, dismissing Sabre’s challenge of the CMA’s decision to block its proposed acquisition of Farelogix. Photograph of an airplane in the sky. Today’s judgment endorses the Competition and (...)

ICO and CMA set out blueprint for cooperation in digital markets* The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) have published a joint statement, setting out their shared views on the relationship between competition and data protection in the (...)

CMA welcomes Court judgment in Facebook and Giphy case* The CMA has today welcomed the Court of Appeal’s decision to dismiss all 4 of Facebook’s grounds of appeal in a key case on how companies engage with the CMA. The Court of Appeal criticised Facebook’s conduct, saying the “central problem in (...)

Imprivata and Isosec abandon merger during CMA investigation* Imprivata and Isosec have abandoned their proposed tie-up after the CMA found competition concerns. Based on assurances received from Imprivata that the deal has been abandoned, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has (...)

CAT upholds infringement decision for pay for delay pharma deals* The Competition Appeal Tribunal has upheld the CMA decision that GlaxoSmithKline and some generic suppliers of the anti-depressant paroxetine broke competition law. The Competition Appeal Tribunal (Tribunal) has, however, (...)

Imprivata’s purchase of Isosec raises competition concerns* The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that Imprivata’s proposed acquisition of Isosec raises competition concerns. Imprivata and Isosec provide secure authentication management solutions to healthcare providers in (...)

Competition Agencies from Germany, the UK and Australia agree on Joint Merger Statement* Today, the Bundeskartellamt, the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) have agreed on a joint statement on merger control. The joint (...)

Bellis’ purchase of Asda raises some competition concerns* The CMA has found that Bellis’ completed £6.8bn purchase of Asda could lead to higher petrol prices in some parts of the country. The Issa Brothers and private equity firm TDR Capital purchased Asda through jointly owned company Bellis. (...)

CAT increases fine after musical instrument firm breaks settlement bargain* The CMA has welcomed a Competition Appeal Tribunal judgment dismissing an appeal against a fine it imposed, instead increasing the fine from £4m to £5m. In June 2020, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) fined (...)

Competition concerns remain about FNZ’s purchase of GBST* The CMA has provisionally found that a deal between FNZ and GBST would raise significant competition concerns, following its re-examination of available evidence. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) reassessed the deal, (...)

CMA provisionally clears merger of Virgin and O2* The CMA has provisionally cleared the proposed merger of Virgin Media and Virgin Mobile with O2. Both Virgin and O2 provide certain wholesale services to other mobile network operators in the UK, as well as retail services to consumers. The (...)

New watchdog to boost online competition launches* A tough new regulator to help make sure tech giants such as Facebook and Google cannot exploit their market dominance to crowd out competition and stifle innovation online has launched. Digital Markets Unit begins work marking major milestone (...)

CMA clears Uber and Autocab deal* The CMA announced today that it has cleared Uber’s purchase of Autocab, following a Phase 1 merger investigation. The CMA (Competition and Markets Authority) opened its Phase 1 merger investigation into ride-hailing company Uber’s acquisition of GPC Software (...)

Facebook’s purchase of Giphy raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that Facebook’s completed acquisition of Giphy raises competition concerns in relation to digital advertising and the supply of GIFs. Giphy is an online database and search engine that allows users to share GIFs and (...)

CMA finds competition concerns in Crowdcube and Seedrs merger* Following an in-depth investigation, the CMA has provisionally found that the proposed merger between Crowdcube and Seedrs will reduce competition and innovation. Crowdcube and Seedrs are the 2 largest equity crowdfunding (...)

Crowdcube and Seedrs abandon merger during CMA investigation* Crowdcube and Seedrs have abandoned their proposed tie-up after the CMA provisionally blocked the deal. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) therefore intends to cancel its investigation into the potential competition (...)

Updated CMA Merger Assessment Guidelines published* Following a public consultation, the CMA has published updated guidelines about its approach to analysing mergers. The Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) previous merger assessment guidelines were published in 2010 and, since then, (...)

Directors disqualified over illegal construction cartel* The CMA has secured the disqualification of 2 former directors of Northern Ireland-based firm FP McCann Ltd for their parts in an illegal construction cartel. The move follows the Competition and Market Authority’s (CMA) 2019 decision (...)

3 company directors to be disqualified over construction cartel* The CMA has secured the disqualification of 3 company directors, after finding they broke competition law by forming a cartel in the construction industry. This move follows an investigation by the Competition and Markets (...)

CMA investigates Apple over suspected anti-competitive behaviour* The CMA has launched an investigation into Apple following complaints that its terms and conditions for app developers are unfair and anti-competitive. In addition to designing, manufacturing and marketing electronic devices (...)

Tribunal upholds CMA decision on pharma collusion and £1.2m fine The Competition Appeal Tribunal has today upheld the CMA’s finding that Lexon broke competition law, dismissing Lexon’s appeal. Last year, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) concluded its investigation into the supply of (...)

Adevinta’s purchase of Gumtree raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that Adevinta’s anticipated £6.5bn ($9.2 billion) purchase of eCG from eBay could lead to higher prices and less choice for consumers. Adevinta and eBay Classified Group (eCG) both operate online classified advertising (...)

CMA requires viagogo to sell StubHub’s international business* The CMA is requiring viagogo to sell all of StubHub’s business outside North America after its in-depth investigation identified competition concerns. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has concluded that the merger between (...)

CMA warns firms over price-fixing of supplies to disabled students* The CMA has cautioned companies supplying goods and services to disabled university students, following concerns that there may have been price-fixing. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has sent advisory letters to (...)

CMA lifts the lid on impact of algorithms* The CMA has published new research on algorithms, showing how they can reduce competition in digital markets and harm consumers if they are misused. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is now seeking evidence from academics and industry (...)

Metallurgy firms abandon merger during CMA investigation* The CMA no longer intends to refer the merger of TTI and Tronox to an in-depth investigation, after Tronox’s announcement to abandon the deal. Tronox and TiZir Titanium and Iron (TTI) are involved in the supply of materials used in the (...)

CMA breaks up motor parts merger* The CMA will require TVS Europe Distribution to sell 3G in order to protect competition in the commercial vehicle and trailer parts sector. Following an in-depth Phase 2 investigation, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has concluded that TVS Europe (...)

CMA to investigate Google’s ‘Privacy Sandbox’ browser changes* The CMA has opened an investigation into Google’s proposals to remove third party cookies and other functionalities from its Chrome browser. The investigation will assess whether the proposals could cause advertising spend to become (...)

CMA to investigate NVIDIA’s takeover of Arm* The CMA is inviting interested third parties to provide initial views on the anticipated acquisition of Arm by NVIDIA. This is an early opportunity for interested third parties to comment on the impact that the takeover could have on competition in (...)

Metallurgy buyout raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that Tronox’s anticipated purchase of TTI raises competition concerns in the supply of chloride slag and titanium dioxide pigment. Both companies are involved in the supply of materials used in the production of titanium dioxide, (...)

CMA publishes final report in funerals market investigation* The CMA has published the final report on its in-depth market investigation into funeral services, confirming its remedies for the sector. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today confirmed its provisional conclusions, (...)

CMA secures affordable supply of key bipolar drug* The CMA has accepted legally binding commitments from Essential Pharma to continue supplying a key bipolar drug at an affordable price for at least 5 years. In October, the CMA launched an investigation suspecting that the pharmaceutical (...)

Construction suppliers fined £15m for breaking competition law* The CMA has fined 2 major suppliers to the construction industry more than £15m for illegally colluding to reduce competition and keep prices up Following an investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), 2 UK-based (...)

CMA publishes review of progress in legal services sector* The CMA’s assessment of changes in the legal services sector since its market study has found some positive developments but concludes more progress is needed. The review follows recommendations made in 2016 after the Competition and (...)

Virgin and O2 merger referred for in-depth investigation* The CMA has referred the proposed merger of Virgin Media and Virgin Mobile with O2 for an in-depth Phase 2 investigation The move comes after Virgin and O2 requested that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) move quickly to the (...)

CMA advises government on new regulatory regime for tech giants* The CMA has issued advice to government on the design and implementation of the UK’s new pro-competition regime for digital markets. New regime will proactively shape the behaviour of the most powerful tech firms It will ensure (...)

CMA and global partners secure privacy changes to the App Store* Following international intervention, Apple will shortly indicate on its App Store what personal data each app uses, empowering consumer choice. The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), along with the Netherlands (...)

The CMA is consulting on its Annual Plan for 2021/22.* The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has outlined the key areas on which it expects to focus in the coming year, including its ongoing commitment to protect UK consumers during the unprecedented circumstances of the coronavirus (...)

CMA to examine electric vehicle charging sector* The CMA is launching a market study into electric vehicle charging, to make sure that this new and fast-growing sector works well for UK drivers. Traditional cars are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions and as part of its “green (...)

CMA looks to appeal CAT judgment in JD Sports case* After careful consideration, the CMA has today applied for permission to appeal the CAT’s recent judgment in the JD Sports/Footasylum case. Last month, the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) supported the Competition and Markets Authority’s (...)

CMA publishes EU Exit guidance* The CMA has today published further guidance to explain how it will conduct its work following the end of the Transition Period for the UK’s exit from the EU. As of 1 January 2021, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will take on responsibility for (...)

CMA reports on the state of competition in the UK* The CMA has issued a first-of-its-kind analysis examining how well competition is working across the UK economy. Commissioned by the Chancellor and the Business Secretary, the report looks at the state of competition in the UK economy. It is (...)

New competition regime for tech giants to give consumers more choice and control over their data, and ensure businesses are fairly treated* A dedicated Digital Markets Unit will be set up to introduce and enforce a new code to govern the behaviour of platforms that currently dominate the (...)

CMA welcomes government response to digital advertising study* The CMA has welcomed the UK Government’s response to its online platforms and digital advertising market study. The government has today accepted, in principle, the findings of the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) year-long (...)

CMA takes swift action in bipolar drug investigation* The CMA is consulting on proposed commitments from Essential Pharma to keep a key bipolar drug on the market, and ensure it is affordable to the NHS. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) launched a competition law investigation into (...)

CMA fines ComparetheMarket £17.9m for competition law breach* The CMA has fined ComparetheMarket £17.9 million after it found that clauses used in the company’s contracts with home insurers breached competition law. An investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has concluded (...)

European Commission refers review of Virgin and O2 deal to CMA* Following a request from the CMA, the European Commission has referred the proposed merger of Virgin Media and Virgin Mobile with O2 to the CMA for investigation. Following the announcement of the deal on 7 May 2020, the (...)

Consultation launched on CMA Merger Assessment Guidelines* The CMA is consulting on updated guidelines about its approach to analysing mergers. The updated Merger Assessment Guidelines will help ensure that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) continues to protect consumers through its (...)

CMA welcomes Tribunal judgment in Facebook and Giphy case* The CMA welcomes today’s Competition Appeal Tribunal judgment which dismissed all of Facebook’s grounds of appeal. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is currently investigating Facebook’s purchase of Giphy, which completed on 15 (...)

CMA considers next steps in JD Sports/Footasylum merger* The CMA is considering its next steps following today’s Competition Appeal Tribunal judgment in the JD Sports/Footasylum case. JD Sports had appealed the Competition and Market Authority’s (CMA) final decision to block its takeover of (...)

Crowdcube/Seedrs deal fast tracked to in-depth CMA investigation* The CMA has agreed to ‘fast track’ the anticipated merger of Crowdcube and Seedrs to an in-depth Phase 2 investigation, after finding likely competition concerns. Crowdcube Limited (Crowdcube) and Seedrs Limited (Seedrs) are the (...)

New powers to protect UK from malicious investment and strengthen economic resilience* New Bill will modernise government’s powers to investigate and intervene in potentially hostile foreign direct investment. The National Security and Investment Bill will strengthen the UK’s ability to (...)

Trading systems firms address CMA competition concerns* The CMA has accepted a proposal from ION to sell Broadway’s fixed income business in order to resolve competition concerns about the completed merger. ION Investment Group Limited (ION) and Broadway Technology Holdings (Broadway) provide (...)

CMA launches consultation on updated merger guidance* The CMA has today launched a consultation on updates to 2 of its merger guidance documents. The guidance has been updated in preparation for the end of the Transition Period following the UK’s departure from the European Union. The updates (...)

CMA blocks investment technology merger* The CMA has ordered FNZ to sell GBST after finding their completed merger could lead to a reduction in the quality of service and higher prices. In its final report, published today, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that the deal (...)

CMA issues fines of over £9m for roofing lead cartel* The CMA has imposed fines totalling more than £9m on 2 of the UK’s largest suppliers of rolled lead, for breaking competition law. Following an investigation into suspected cartel conduct, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) found (...)

Medical device supplier resolves CMA concerns* The CMA has accepted a proposal from Stryker to sell its business in the UK total ankle prostheses market to resolve competition concerns. Stryker Corporation (Stryker) and Wright Medical Group N.V. (Wright) both manufacture a range of (...)

Educational supplies firms abandon merger during CMA investigation* YPO has abandoned its proposed deal with Findel. The CMA published its provisional findings outlining its concerns about the merger last month. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has therefore today confirmed it (...)

CMA finds competition concerns in viagogo and StubHub merger* Following an in-depth investigation, the CMA has provisionally found that the completed merger of viagogo and StubHub will reduce competition. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) found that viagogo and StubHub are close (...)

Customers could lose out in motor parts merger* The CMA has provisionally found that the purchase of 3G by TVS raises competition concerns in the supply of commercial vehicle and trailer parts. Universal Components UK Limited (Universal Components), owned by TVS Europe Distribution Limited, (...)

Schools could lose out in educational supplies merger* The CMA has provisionally found that YPO’s anticipated purchase of close competitor Findel could leave schools worse off. Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation (YPO) and Findel Education Limited (Findel) are 2 of the leading suppliers of (...)

Instagram to tackle hidden advertising after CMA action* Following CMA action, Instagram will do more to prevent hidden advertising on its app and website, signalling an important behaviour shift by a major platform. Facebook Ireland Ltd, which operates Instagram in the UK, has committed to a (...)

Deal between Carlsberg and Marston’s given the go-ahead* The CMA has cleared the proposed joint venture between brewing companies Carlsberg and Marston’s. Both companies are large brewers of beer and cider, as well as offering related services, such as wholesale supply of their own and other (...)

CMA requests review of Virgin and O2 merger* The CMA has made a request to the European Commission to refer the proposed merger of Virgin Media and Virgin Mobile with O2 to the CMA for investigation. Liberty Global plc (Liberty) owns Virgin Media and Virgin Mobile in the UK, and Telefónica (...)

CMA to investigate the supply of bipolar drug* The CMA has opened an investigation into suspected anti-competitive practices in the supply of drugs used to treat bipolar disorder. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will investigate whether the pharmaceutical company Essential Pharma (...)

Motorcycle insurance merger to be reversed following CMA concerns* The CMA has accepted a proposal from Ardonagh to fully unwind its recent £26 million purchase of Bennetts to resolve competition concerns. Ardonagh Group Limited (Ardonagh), which operates the Carole Nash and Swinton brands, (...)

CMA acts to protect competition on UK-US airline routes* Due to coronavirus, the CMA has imposed measures to protect competition on UK-US air routes while it investigates an agreement involving BA and American Airlines. The next year will see the expiry of remedies in place under a set of (...)

Motorcycle insurance broker merger raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that Ardonagh’s completed purchase of Bennetts could lead to higher prices, less choice and worse services for motorcyclists in the UK. Ardonagh Group Limited (Ardonagh), which operates the Carole Nash and (...)

Digital advertising merger to be abandoned during CMA investigation* Taboola has announced that it is to abandon its proposed purchase of Outbrain. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has therefore today confirmed it intends to cancel its investigation into the potential competition (...)

Final decision published in window blind merger inquiry* The CMA has decided that Hunter Douglas, owner of online blinds retailer Blinds2Go, must sell the majority of its shares in 247 to protect competition and prevent higher prices. Hunter Douglas originally purchased a minority stake in (...)

CMA updates competition law risk guide for managers* An updated guide to competition rules has been issued to help managers, directors and their advisers to stay on the right side of the law. The latest guide from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), together with the Institute of (...)

CMA to assess progress in legal services sector* The CMA is reviewing the legal services sector in England and Wales to assess whether transparency of price, quality and service have improved. In 2016, the CMA carried out a market study into the supply of legal services in England and Wales, (...)

CMA to increase competition cooperation with international partners* The CMA has signed a new framework with 5 of its international counterpart competition authorities to improve co-operation on investigations. The Multilateral Mutual Assistance and Cooperation Framework for Competition (...)

Construction materials deal raises competition concerns* Breedon’s purchase of certain Cemex assets raises competition concerns in the supply of building materials in some parts of the UK, the CMA has found. Breedon Group plc (Breedon) and Cemex Investments Limited (Cemex) are 2 of the leading (...)

Deal between Visa and Plaid given the go-ahead* The CMA has cleared Visa’s anticipated purchase of fintech start-up Plaid. The decision by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) follows a Phase 1 review in which it investigated several possible ways the deal could harm competition. Visa (...)

Competition concerns in retail investment software merger* Following an in-depth investigation, the CMA has provisionally blocked the merger of FNZ and GBST. FNZ purchased GBST in November 2019. Both companies have a significant presence in the UK. They are 2 of the leading suppliers of (...)

CMA clears Amazon’s 16% investment in Deliveroo* Following an in-depth investigation, the CMA has today cleared Amazon’s 16% investment in Deliveroo after finding that it will not substantially lessen competition. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) completed an initial ‘Phase 1’ (...)

CMA final decision on air traffic control charges* The CMA has sent the CAA its final price control determination on a dispute between the aviation regulator and NERL regarding air traffic control charges. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has acted as the independent body charged (...)

Roland fined £4 million for illegally preventing online price discounts* Lessons from the CMA’s investigation into Roland’s use of illegal resale price maintenance (RPM). Background When online resellers have the freedom to price items independently this leads to healthy competition – rivals (...)

How should competition policy react to coronavirus?* IPPR has today published a paper by CMA Chairman Andrew Tyrie, discussing how competition policy can contribute to a robust and sustainable post-crisis recovery. The paper - How should competition policy react to coronavirus? - explores (...)

Customers could lose out in merger between window blind companies* The CMA has provisionally found that Hunter Douglas’ purchase of 247 Home Furnishings Ltd raises competition concerns. Hunter Douglas is a leading global supplier of blinds and other window coverings, which generated global (...)

CMA publishes Annual Report 2019/2020* The CMA has published its Annual Report, highlighting the wide range of work the UK competition and consumer authority has carried out in the past year. Throughout the year, the CMA delivered a substantial volume of work to ensure effective enforcement (...)

CMA levies fines of £2.3m and secures £8m for NHS in pharma probe* The CMA has formally concluded that 3 pharmaceutical companies took part in an illegal arrangement in relation to the supply of life-saving medicine. The investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority into the supply of (...)

The CMA has published a third update from its COVID-19 taskforce, which monitors and responds to competition and consumer problems arising from the pandemic.* As part of the taskforce’s work, it has been asking the public for information about businesses behaving unfairly, for example regarding (...)

Court orders disqualification of estate agent cartel director* In the first contested case of its kind, the CMA has secured the disqualification of a director whose Somerset estate agency breached competition law. Following a four day trial last month, Mr Michael Martin was today disqualified (...)

New regime needed to take on tech giants* The CMA is calling on the government to introduce a new pro-competition regulatory regime to tackle Google and Facebook’s market power. The dynamic nature of digital advertising markets and the types of concerns identified by the Competition and (...)

CMA imposes £1.2m in fines for price-fixing in private eyecare* The CMA has found that a private hospital group and 7 consultant ophthalmologists broke competition law by taking part in illegal price fixing. Following an investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), Spire (...)

Medical device suppliers’ merger raises competition concerns* The CMA has concluded that the merger of 2 suppliers of medical devices could lead to a reduction of competition in the supply of total ankle replacement prosthetics. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is concerned that, (...)

Musical instrument firms to pay millions after breaking competition law* The CMA has fined 2 musical instrument makers a total of £5.5 million, in 2 separate cases, for breaking competition law by restricting online discounting of musical instruments. The fines on the companies, Roland and (...)

Competition concerns found in digital advertising merger* Taboola’s purchase of Outbrain raises competition concerns in the supply of content recommendation, a type of digital advertising. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been investigating the anticipated purchase of Outbrain (...)

CMA revises provisional findings in Amazon/Deliveroo case* The CMA has provisionally cleared Amazon’s 16% investment in Deliveroo, on the basis that it is not likely to result in a substantial lessening of competition. In its initial provisional findings, published in April, the Competition (...)

Competition concerns raised over educational supplies merger* The CMA has found that YPO’s anticipated acquisition of Findel raises competition concerns in the supply of resources to educational institutions in the UK. Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation (YPO) and Findel Education Limited (...)

Estate agent directors disqualified for roles in illegal cartel* Stephen Jones and Neil Mackenzie were directors at estate agents Richard Worth and Michael Hardy, respectively, from September 2008 to May 2015. During this time, their firms took part in a cartel with 2 other local estate agents (...)

Two UK roofing lead firms admit to illegal cartel* Two of the UK’s largest suppliers of rolled lead have admitted to taking part in anti-competitive arrangements and could face fines of more than £11 million. Rolled lead is an important product for the construction industry, used mainly for (...)

Merger of viagogo and StubHub raises competition concerns* viagogo’s purchase of StubHub raises competition concerns in the online secondary ticketing market in the UK, a CMA investigation has found. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is concerned that the loss of competition brought (...)

Pharma company director disqualified for competition law breaches* The CMA has secured the disqualification of pharmaceutical company director Amit Patel after he admitted his role in arrangements that broke competition law. Amit Patel has signed undertakings that ban him from holding a (...)

Commercial vehicle and trailer parts merger raises competition concerns* Universal Components’ purchase of 3G raises competition concerns in the wholesale supply of commercial vehicle and trailer parts, a CMA investigation has found. Universal Components UK Limited (Universal Components), (...)

Update on CMA COVID-19 Taskforce* The CMA has published a second update from its COVID-19 Taskforce, which monitors and responds to competition and consumer problems arising from the pandemic. As part of the Taskforce’s work, it is asking the public for information about businesses behaving (...)

Building supply companies abandon merger during CMA investigation* Kingspan has abandoned its proposed deal with Building Solutions during an in-depth CMA probe. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has therefore today confirmed that it will be cancelling its Phase 2 merger (...)

CMA consults on BA and American Airlines commitments* British Airways and American Airlines have offered commitments to resolve the CMA’s competition concerns over an agreement about airline routes between the UK and US. The airlines will make slots available at London Heathrow or Gatwick (...)

CMA blocks sports-fashion merger* The CMA has blocked JD Sports’ purchase of close competitor Footasylum after finding it would leave shoppers worse off. Following an in-depth Phase 2 investigation, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has concluded that this transaction would lead to a (...)

Publishing merger abandoned after CMA investigation* McGraw-Hill Education has abandoned its proposed deal with Cengage Learning after competition concerns raised by the CMA. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has therefore today confirmed that it will be cancelling its Phase 2 (...)

CMA clears NHS hospital trusts merger* The CMA has cleared the proposed merger between The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. In 2013, the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) predecessor, the Competition Commission, (...)

CMA publishes update on COVID-19 Taskforce* The CMA has today published an update from its COVID-19 Taskforce, set up to monitor and respond to consumer and competition problems arising from the pandemic. As part of the Taskforce’s work, it asked the public for information about businesses (...)

CMA gives Just Eat and Takeaway.com deal the green light* The CMA has cleared the £6.2 billion merger between 2 food delivery companies. Just Eat plc (Just Eat) is one of the main food delivery firms in the UK market, while Takeaway.com N.V (Takeaway.com) operates in 11 countries overseas, (...)

COVID-19: CMA approach to merger assessments* The CMA has today provided more detail on its general approach to assessing mergers during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Following its statement about working practices issued on 18 March, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has set (...)

Cellnex’s purchase of Arqiva cleared by CMA after thorough review* The CMA has cleared the £2bn merger between Cellnex UK and Arqiva’s telecommunication infrastructure division. Both companies are independent providers of telecommunication infrastructure, including towers, pylons and masts, (...)

CMA provisionally clears Amazon’s investment in Deliveroo* In light of a deterioration in Deliveroo’s financial position as a result of coronavirus (COVID-19), the CMA has provisionally cleared Amazon’s investment in Deliveroo. After completing an initial, Phase 1, investigation, the Competition (...)

CMA blocks airline booking merger* Following an in-depth investigation, the CMA has blocked Sabre’s proposed takeover of Farelogix. Among other products and services, Sabre and Farelogix supply software solutions which help airlines to sell flights via travel agents including those that (...)

Private hospital merger to be approved if local concerns addressed* The CMA has found that the completed merger between Circle and BMI does not raise UK-wide competition concerns but could reduce competition in 2 local areas. Both Circle and BMI provide elective care to NHS and privately (...)

Construction products merger raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that Kingspan’s anticipated purchase of Building Solutions raises competition concerns in the supply of specialist insulation panels. Kingspan is the leading provider in the UK of standard foam sandwich panels, which (...)

Merger between betting firms cleared by the CMA* Following an investigation, the CMA has cleared the merger between gambling companies Flutter and Stars. The companies are 2 of the main online betting brands in the UK, with a combined revenue of £1.5 billion. Flutter owns Paddy Power and (...)

Merger of retail investment software firms raises competition concerns* FNZ’s purchase of GBST raises competition concerns in the provision of retail investment platform solutions in the UK, a CMA investigation has found. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is concerned that the loss (...)

Government to suspend competition law to support Isle of Wight ferry routes* Competition law to be temporarily suspended to allow ferry operators to maintain a crucial lifeline between the island and the mainland. Business Secretary to waive competition law for vital Isle of Wight crossings (...)

Introduction The focus of the CMA in the next few months will be to protect UK consumers from the adverse consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic to the greatest extent possible. The CMA is conscious of concerns that competition law enforcement could impede necessary cooperation between (...)

CMA review of air traffic control charges* The CMA has released and is consulting on its provisional findings into a dispute between the CAA and NERL regarding air traffic control charges. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has acted as the independent body charged with looking into (...)

CMA proposes reforms to Scottish legal services sector* The CMA has completed a research project to examine competition and regulation in the Scottish legal services sector. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is recommending a series of measures to improve the information made (...)

CMA launches COVID-19 taskforce* The CMA is today launching a taskforce to tackle negative impacts within its remit of the COVID-19 pandemic. The outbreak of COVID-19 is an unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenge that has prompted many concerns that businesses might exploit the situation (...)

Coronavirus (COVID-19): CMA open letter to pharmaceutical and food and drink industries.* The Competition and Markets Authority has published an open letter for businesses in the pharmaceutical and food and drink industries. Details We have written an open letter to the pharmaceutical and (...)

Merger between window blind companies raises competition concerns* Hunter Douglas’s purchase of 247 Home Furnishings Ltd raises competition concerns in the supply of made-to-measure window blinds, the CMA has found. Hunter Douglas is a leading global supplier of window coverings, which (...)

COVID-19: CMA approach to essential business cooperation* The CMA is very conscious of concerns that competition law enforcement could impede necessary cooperation between businesses to deal with the current crisis and ensure security of supplies of essential products and services, such as (...)

COVID-19: CMA working arrangements* Along with other businesses and organisations, the CMA continues to monitor the outbreak of COVID-19 and has adjusted its working arrangements in response. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is concerned above all to ensure the safety and (...)

Final decision published in radio merger inquiry* The CMA will ensure local radio stations have access to advertising representation following an in-depth investigation into Bauer’s purchase of almost 50 stations. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has investigated Bauer Media’s (...)

Educational publishing merger raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that McGraw-Hill’s takeover of competitor Cengage could leave students worse off. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is concerned that the loss of competition brought about by the proposed merger could result (...)

CMA welcomes Court of Appeal judgment in Phenytoin case* The CMA welcomes today’s Court of Appeal judgment, calling it an important step forward in clarifying the legal test for excessive and unfair pricing. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will now carefully review the elements (...)

COVID-19: sales and pricing practices during Coronavirus outbreak* The CMA has been monitoring reports of changes to sales and pricing practices during the coronavirus outbreak. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) wants to ensure that traders do not exploit the current situation to (...)

Over £3m in fines and £1m for NHS in CMA pharma probe* Following an investigation, the CMA has found that 4 pharmaceutical companies broke competition law in relation to the supply of an antidepressant. The probe by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) into the supply of nortriptyline, a (...)

CMA welcomes EU Court ruling in pay-for-delay drug case* The CMA welcomes a ruling from the EU Court of Justice in relation to its case that drug companies supplying an antidepressant called paroxetine broke the law. The ruling, released today, follows appeals from GlaxoSmithKline and other (...)

Illumina/PacBio abandon merger* Illumina has abandoned its anticipated $1.2 billion takeover of PacBio after an in-depth CMA merger probe highlighted serious competition concerns. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has therefore today confirmed that it will be cancelling its Phase 2 (...)

Construction firms fined £36 million for breaking competition law* The CMA has issued 3 firms with fines totalling more than £36 million for breaking competition law in supplying certain concrete drainage products for building projects. Following an investigation by the Competition and Markets (...)

Sports fashion merger raises competition concerns* The CMA has found that JD Sports’ takeover of close competitor Footasylum could be bad for shoppers. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is concerned that the loss of competition brought about by the merger could result in a worse deal (...)

Sabre’s takeover of Farelogix raises competition concerns* Sabre’s proposed takeover of Farelogix raises competition concerns in the supply of IT systems used by airlines and travel agents to sell airline tickets. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been investigating the proposed (...)

Suppliers of antidepressants accused of illegal anti-competitive conduct* The CMA has provisionally found that 4 pharmaceutical companies broke competition law in relation to the supply of an anti-depressant drug. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has accused competitors King and (...)

CMA clears PayPal / iZettle deal* The CMA has cleared PayPal’s completed takeover of rival mobile payments company iZettle after an in-depth, Phase 2, investigation. Both companies provide mobile point of sale (mPOS) devices that enable businesses to take ‘offline’ payments through a card reader (...)

Drug firms accused of illegal market sharing over anti-nausea tablets* The CMA has provisionally found that 4 pharmaceutical companies broke the law by agreeing not to compete in the supply of an anti-nausea drug in the UK. In a statement of objections issued today, the Competition and (...)

Construction cartel directors disqualified* The CMA has secured the disqualification of 2 former directors of CPM Group Ltd following CPM’s admission that it breached competition law. The move follows the Competition and Market Authority’s (CMA) statement of objections issued on 13 December (...)

CMA blocks merger between Sainsbury’s and Asda* The CMA has blocked the Sainsbury’s / Asda merger after finding it would lead to increased prices in stores, online and at many petrol stations across the UK. In its final report, published today, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) found (...)

CMA orders sale of customer contracts in washroom suppliers’ merger* Rentokil Initial must sell several large supply contracts to satisfy CMA concerns over its merger with Cannon Hygiene. The decision by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) comes after an in-depth Phase 2 investigation (...)

Aer Lingus / CityJet deal cleared for take-off* Aer Lingus’ deal with CityJet for the London City airport to Dublin route has been cleared after a CMA probe. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today cleared an agreement under which Aer Lingus has taken over scheduled passenger (...)

CMA proposes reforms to improve competition in audit sector* Improvements to the independence and the quality of audits are the focus of the CMA’s market study update. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published an update paper outlining serious competition concerns and proposing (...)

Guidance on merger remedies in Phase 1 and Phase 2 investigations.* This guidance is intended for merger parties and their advisers. It seeks to provide a single source of guidance on remedies for Phase 1 and Phase 2 merger investigations. This guidance applies to any Phase 1 merger (...)

Two construction firms admit to illegal cartel* The CMA has provisionally found that 3 drainage product manufacturers broke competition law by co-ordinating prices for customers and sharing the market. Two of the businesses – Derbyshire-based Stanton Bonna Concrete Ltd and Somerset-based CPM (...)

University laundry merger broken up by CMA* The CMA has decided that JLA must sell Washstation to preserve competition in the supply of managed laundry services to higher education providers. The decision by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) comes following an in-depth investigation (...)

Algorithm research builds on work in digital markets* The CMA has published a study into pricing algorithms and whether they could be used to support illegal practices. The research increases the CMA’s expertise at a time of widespread scrutiny of pricing algorithms and how they interact with (...)

Heathrow and Arora admit to anti-competitive car park agreement* Heathrow airport will pay a £1.6m fine for restricting competition on parking prices in a lease with the operator of a Terminal 5 hotel. The fine to be imposed by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), comes after its (...)

Win in Ping golf clubs case sends clear online retail signal* The Competition Appeal Tribunal has upheld the CMA’s decision that Ping Europe Ltd broke the law by banning the online sale of its golf clubs. This landmark case sends an important signal that attempts by manufacturers to impose (...)

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today launched an in-depth market investigation into the funerals sector.* Following publication of its interim report in November 2018, the CMA consulted on whether to progress to a market investigation. Having carefully considered the (...)

£3.4m fine for household coal and BBQ supplier cartel* Two of the biggest suppliers of charcoal and coal for households in the UK have agreed to pay a £3.4m fine for taking part in a market sharing cartel. CPL and Fuel Express are 2 of the main suppliers of bagged household fuels, including (...)

Tesco/Booker merger cleared after in-depth review* The CMA has concluded that Tesco’s purchase of Booker does not raise competition concerns. A group of independent Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) panel members has examined all submissions received since its provisional findings before (...)

CMA launches digital tool to fight bid-rigging* The CMA’s Screening for Cartels tool will help public procurement professionals identify suspicious behaviour by suppliers when bidding for contracts. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has worked with Spend Network, a company (...)

£1.71m fine for laundry companies found to be market sharing* The CMA has fined 2 suppliers of ‘cleanroom’ laundry services for breaking competition law by agreeing not to compete for each other’s customers. It follows enforcement action by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) against the (...)

CMA ACCEPTS MANCHESTER CINEMAS SALE* In December, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced that AMC (UK) Acquisition Ltd’s (AMC’s) purchase of Odeon and UCI Cinemas Holdings Ltd (Odeon) would face an in-depth investigation, unless AMC could address concerns over the merger’s effect (...)

Drug company accused of abusing its position to overcharge the NHS* The CMA has provisionally found that Concordia abused its dominant position to overcharge the NHS by millions for an essential thyroid drug. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been investigating how much the (...)

Lighting company fined £2.7 million for restricting online prices* A lighting supplier has been fined for requiring retailers to use a minimum price when selling their products online. The National Lighting Company (NLC) supplies light fittings to a range of retailers who then sell them on. (...)

CMA accepts Mastercard/VocaLink undertakings* The CMA has today accepted undertakings offered by Mastercard to address competition concerns arising from its purchase of VocaLink. On 18 January 2017, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced it would look in detail at whether the (...)

CMA alleges anti-competitive agreements for hydrocortisone tablets* The CMA today alleged that Concordia and Actavis signed illegal agreements which enabled high prices for a life-saving drug to be prolonged. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) alleges that between January 2013 and (...)

CMA fines water tank firms over £2.7 million* The CMA has today issued 2 decisions imposing fines on suppliers of galvanised steel tanks for breaching competition law. Galvanised steel tanks are used for water storage in larger buildings, such as schools, hospitals and other commercial and (...)

Pharmaceutical company accused of overcharging NHS* The pharmaceutical company Actavis UK (formerly Auden Mckenzie) has increased the price of 10mg hydrocortisone tablets by over 12,000% compared to the branded version of the drug which was sold by a different company prior to April 2008. For (...)

CMA fines Pfizer and Flynn £90 million for drug price hike to NHS* The CMA has fined pharma companies Pfizer and Flynn Pharma nearly £90 million for charging excessive prices to the NHS for an anti-epilepsy drug. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has imposed a record £84.2 million fine (...)

CMA CONSULTS ON FRUIT JUICE MERGER UNDERTAKINGS* The CMA is consulting on undertakings offered by Hain to address merger competition concerns arising from its purchase of Orchard. Hain Frozen Foods UK Limited (Hain) and Orchard House Foods Limited (Orchard) are the only 2 suppliers of (...)

CMA ACCEPTS REMEDIES IN FUEL PUMPS MERGER* The CMA has accepted undertakings from Dover to remedy competition concerns arising from its merger with Wayne. This follows the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) intervention to ensure that choice is maintained for petrol and diesel retailers (...)

CMA accepts fruit juice merger remedies* The CMA has accepted Hain’s undertaking to sell its own-label fruit juice business to an approved buyer. Hain Frozen Foods UK Ltd (Hain) bought Orchard House Foods Ltd (Orchard) in December 2015. Both are major suppliers of own-label freshly squeezed (...)

CMA ACCEPTS BROKER MERGER UNDERTAKINGS* The CMA has accepted undertakings from Tullett Prebon and will not refer its merger with IGBB for an in-depth investigation. Tullett Prebon plc and ICAP plc are leading global interdealer brokers, companies that sit between investment banks helping to (...)

CMA publishes final report on private healthcare remittal* The CMA has decided, following new evidence, that extra remedies in London’s private healthcare market would not be proportionate. The Competition Commission, a predecessor body of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), started a (...)

CASHPOINT MERGER FACES IN-DEPTH INVESTIGATION* Diebold and Wincor face an in-depth merger investigation by the CMA unless the companies offer undertakings to address competition concerns. Diebold, Incorporated (Diebold) and Wincor Nixdorf AG (Wincor) both supply ATMs (cashpoints) to banks and (...)

MERGER OF TOY SUPPLIERS COULD FACE IN-DEPTH INVESTIGATION* VTech could face an in-depth merger investigation over competition concerns arising from its completed merger with LeapFrog. VTech Holdings Ltd (VTech) and LeapFrog Enterprises Inc (LeapFrog) are 2 of the 3 largest suppliers of (...)

CMA issues final decision in online cartel case* The CMA has today issued a formal decision that 2 online sellers of posters and frames broke competition law. This follows the announcement on 21 July 2016 that Trod Ltd had admitted agreeing with GB eye Ltd (trading as ‘GB Posters’) that they (...)

Online seller admits breaking competition law* An online seller has agreed to accept a fine after admitting using automated repricing software to implement an illegal cartel. Trod Limited has admitted agreeing with one of its competing online sellers, GB eye Limited (trading as ‘GB Posters’), (...)

Acadia/Priory merger faces in-depth investigation* Acadia’s completed acquisition of Priory faces being referred for an in-depth investigation by the CMA. Acadia Healthcare Company, Inc (Acadia) through its UK subsidiary Partnerships in Care, and Priory Group No.1 Limited (Priory) overlap in (...)

CMA ACCEPTES RECORDS MANAGEMENT UNDERTAKINGS* The CMA has accepted undertakings from Iron Mountain Inc to sell C21 Data Services in Aberdeen and Dundee to an approved buyer. Iron Mountain and Recall both provide records management services, which comprise the storage and retrieval of paper (...)

Broker merger faces an in-depth investigation* Tullett’s anticipated acquisition of ICAP’s voice/hybrid broking business faces being referred for an in-depth investigation by the CMA. Tullett Prebon plc (Tullett) and ICAP plc (ICAP) are leading global interdealer brokers, companies that (...)

CMA’s private healthcare provisional decision on remedies* The CMA has provisionally found that likely changes in London’s private healthcare market mean that extra remedies would not be proportionate. In April 2012, the Competition Commission, a predecessor body of the Competition and Markets (...)

CMA fines pharma companies £45 million* The CMA has fined a number of pharmaceutical companies for anti-competitive conduct and agreements in relation to the supply of paroxetine. The CMA’s decision relates to conduct and agreements between 2001 and 2004 in which GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK), the (...)

CMA ACCEPTS REMEDY IN SERVICED OFFICE SPACE MERGER * The Competition and Markets Authority has today accepted a remedy to resolve competition concerns arising from Regus’ acquisition of Avanta. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced on 18 November 2015 that it would consider in (...)

CMA welcomes Supreme Court judgment in Eurotunnel case* The CMA has welcomed the judgment by the Supreme Court to uphold its appeal in the Eurotunnel case. In the judgment handed down today, the Supreme Court has ruled that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) took the correct approach (...)

CMA refers computer-based testing merger for in-depth investigation* The CMA has referred Pearson VUE’s anticipated acquisition of learndirect’s computer-based testing business for a phase 2 investigation. Earlier this month, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said that it would refer (...)

Pharmacy merger faces in-depth investigation* Celesio’s anticipated acquisition of Sainsbury’s pharmacy business faces being referred for an in-depth investigation by the CMA. Celesio AG (Celesio), through its subsidiary Lloyds Pharmacy Limited (Lloyds), operates 1,542 pharmacies across the UK, (...)

CMA PROVISIONALLY CLEARS BT/EE MERGER * The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has provisionally cleared BT’s anticipated acquisition of EE. BT Group plc (BT) and EE Limited (EE) are large telecommunications companies in the UK. They operate largely in separate areas with BT strong in (...)

CMA presses on with remedies removal* The CMA is continuing its drive to ensure that its remedies do not stay in place longer than needed. As part of a series of such reviews, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has looked at remedies resulting from 13 merger investigations and (...)

CMA provisionally clears water merger* The CMA has today provisionally cleared the purchase of Bournemouth Water by South West Water. In June 2015, the completed acquisition by Pennon Group plc (the owner of South West Water Limited) of Bournemouth Water Investments Limited (which operates (...)

CMA CONSIDERS REMEDIES IN FAMILY LAW INFORMATION MERGER* The CMA has decided to consider in detail whether to accept remedies offered by Reed Elsevier (UK) Limited. Earlier this month, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced that it would refer the anticipated acquisition by (...)

CMA closes hotel online booking investigation* The CMA today announced that it has closed an investigation into suspected breaches of competition law in the hotel online booking sector. The investigation was launched by the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) predecessor, the Office of (...)

Guidance on new compensation schemes power in competition cases* The CMA today published guidance on a new power to encourage competition law-breaking businesses to voluntarily pay compensation to victims. Under the guidance, businesses setting up voluntary redress schemes can, in certain (...)

CMA ORDERS REMEDY TO MEET CONCERN OVER LUBRICANTS MERGER * The CMA has found that Reckitt Benckiser’s anticipated acquisition of the K-Y brand could lead to higher prices for personal lubricants. In its final report published today, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has concluded the (...)

CMA issues statement of objections to Pfizer and Flynn Pharma in anti-epilepsy drug investigation* The CMA has today issued a statement of objections to the pharmaceutical suppliers Pfizer and Flynn Pharma alleging that they have breached competition law. The Competition and Markets (...)

Rendering merger faces in-depth investigation unless undertakings offered* Linergy’s acquisition of Ulster Farm By-Products will be referred for an in-depth phase 2 investigation unless acceptable undertakings are offered. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that the (...)

SOUTH WEST AND BOURNEMOUTH WATER MERGER REFERRED FOR AN IN-DEPTH INVESTIGATION * The CMA today referred the merger of Bournemouth Water with South West Water for an in-depth phase 2 investigation. Currently the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has a duty to refer mergers involving (...)

BT/EE merger fast-tracked to phase 2 investigation* The CMA has today referred BT Group plc’s anticipated acquisition of EE Limited for an in-depth phase 2 investigation. BT and EE are, respectively, the largest suppliers of fixed communications services and mobile communications services in (...)

CMA CONFIRMS CLEARANCE OF PORK FARMS / KERRY FOODS MERGER* The CMA has today cleared the completed acquisition by Pork Farms Caspian of the chilled savoury pastry business of Kerry Foods. This confirms April’s provisional findings by the group of Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) (...)

CMA PROVISIONALLY CLEARS PACKAGING MERGER* The CMA has provisionally cleared the completed acquisition by Sonoco Products Company of Weidenhammer Packaging Group. Sonoco and Weidenhammer both produce composite cans (rigid tubes with closures on each end) which are supplied to customers for (...)

CMA consults on GTCR proposed undertaking* The CMA is consulting on a proposed undertaking in lieu of a reference in relation to GTCR’s acquisition of Gorkana Group. In April, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced it would consider in detail an undertaking proposed by GTCR (...)

CMA SETS OUT PROVISIONAL CONCERNS OVER LUBRICANTS MERGER* The CMA has provisionally found that Reckitt Benckiser’s anticipated acquisition of the K-Y brand could lead to higher prices for personal lubricants. Reckitt Benckiser (RB) and Johnson & Johnson (J&J) supply personal lubricants (...)

CMA publishes updated issues statement in banking market investigation* The CMA has today published an updated issues statement as part of its investigation into the supply of personal current accounts and retail banking services to SMEs. The updated issues statement summarises the (...)

CMA SEEKS PERMISSION TO APPEAL IN EUROTUNNEL CASE * The CMA today announced that it will seek permission to appeal following last week’s Court of Appeal judgment in the Eurotunnel case. The judgment upheld a challenge to the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) jurisdiction over (...)

CMA FORMALLY CLEARS SPECIALIST INSURANCE MERGER* The CMA has formally cleared the completed acquisition by Xchanging of certain companies comprising all of the European operations of Agencyport. Xchanging plc (Xchanging) and Agencyport Software Group (Agencyport) supply specialist software to (...)

CMA PROVISIONALLY CLEARS PORK FARMS / KERRY FOOD MERGER* The CMA has provisionally cleared the completed acquisition by Pork Farms Caspian of the chilled savoury pastry business of Kerry Foods. Pork Farms Group Limited, through the Pork Farms Caspian Limited subsidiary, and Kerry Foods (...)

CMA PROVISIONALLY CLEARS SPECIALIST INSURANCE MERGER* The CMA has provisionally cleared the completed acquisition by Xchanging of certain companies comprising all of the European operations of Agencyport. Xchanging plc (Xchanging) and Agencyport Software Group (Agencyport) supply specialist (...)

Companies fined over £775,000 in CMA investigation into advertising of agents’ fees* An association of estate and lettings agents in Hampshire, three of its members and a newspaper publisher have admitted breaching competition law and have agreed to pay penalties totalling over £775,000. The (...)

The CMA has today published an updated issues statement as part of its investigation into the Great Britain energy markets.* The updated issues statement (PDF, 969KB, 49 pages) summarises the investigation group’s initial thinking based on the evidence it has received, and the analysis it has (...)

CMA welcomes Court of Appeal Judgment on Ryanair/Aer Lingus* The CMA welcomes today’s judgment by the Court Of Appeal dismissing Ryanair’s challenge on all 3 grounds. The judgment followed an appeal by Ryanair Holdings plc (Ryanair) against an earlier decision made by the Competition Appeal (...)

Stagecoach/Virgin consortium given chance to resolve limited competition concerns arising from the East Coast rail franchise award* ICRL, a subsidiary jointly owned by Stagecoach and Virgin Trains, has the chance to avoid an in-depth merger investigation into its successful bid to run the East (...)

The CMA has welcomed today’s judgment by the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) to uphold the CMA’s decision to bar Eurotunnel from running its MyFerryLink service out of Dover, to safeguard competition.* The CAT’s judgment dismissed an appeal by Eurotunnel and Société Coopérative de Production de (...)

CMA sets out proposals to lower payday loan costs* The CMA has set out proposals to increase price competition between payday lenders and help borrowers get a better deal. These proposals have been developed in light of the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) price cap proposals announced this (...)

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today published the final order that will put into action major changes in the UK statutory audit market for large companies.* The changes follow the Competition Commission’s (CC’s) report into the market published last year which set out changes (...)

The CMA has today published measures it expects to increase competition in the car insurance market and reduce the cost of premiums for drivers.* The measures are included in the final report of its investigation, conducted by an independent panel of members, into the private motor insurance (...)

United Kingdom: The Competition and Markets Authority accepts Commitments relating to Platform Services for Automotive Sector* On 9 September 2014, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) accepted final commitments offered by Epyx Limited (Epyx) relating to service, maintenance and repair (...)

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has cleared Omnicell/MTS’s proposed acquisition of SurgiChem.* This confirms the CMA’s provisional decision which was published last month and has been made by a group of independent CMA panel members. Omnicell, Inc./MTS Medication Technologies, Inc. (...)

United Kingdom: The Office of Fair Trading issues Statement of Objections against Booking.com, Expedia and Intercontinental Hotels Group* On 31 July 2012, the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) issued a Statement of Objections alleging that Booking. com B.V. (Booking.com), Expedia Inc (Expedia) and (...)

CC formally clears Pan Fish /Marine Harvest Merger* The Competition Commission (CC) has formally cleared the anticipated acquisition by Pan Fish ASA of Marine Harvest NV. In its final report published today at www.competition-commission.org.uk, the CC has concluded that the acquisition may (...)

Association of British Insurer’s General Terms of Agreement* On 13 November 2002, the ABI notified its GTA between insurers and credit hire organisations (CHOs) to the OFT for a decision that the GTA did not fall within the Chapter I prohibition of the Competition Act 1998 (’the Act’) or, in the (...)

Appeal dismissed, fine reduced from £3.21 million to £2.2 million. Directions to adjust pricing policy upheld. This is the first appeal to the Competition Commission Appeal Tribunal (the Tribunal) against the decision of the Director of Fair Trading (the Director) to impose a fine under section (...)