UK CMA Publications

CMA assessing Aldi/Lidl for Large Grocery Retailer designation

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is assessing whether Aldi and Lidl meet the criteria to be designated as Large Grocery Retailers under the Groceries Market Investigation (Controlled Land) Order 2010. The CMA has launched an Invitation to Comment, which closes on April 13, 2026.

CMA examines heating oil prices amid Middle East conflict

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is examining concerns about rising heating oil prices due to the Middle East conflict. The CMA is investigating reports of cancelled orders and significant price increases, engaging with suppliers to assess potential breaches of consumer protection law.

CMA Response to UK Competition Regime Consultation

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published its response to the Department for Business and Trade's consultation on refining the UK's competition regime. The response addresses proposals aimed at improving the pace, predictability, proportionality, and process of competition law enforcement.

CMA Finalizes Water Company Bill Increases

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued a final decision on disputed price controls for five water companies, allowing an average bill increase of 2.2%. The CMA rejected 83% of the increases sought by the companies, granting £463 million in additional revenue, down from a provisional £556 million.

CMA Guidance on Consumer Law for AI Agents

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published new guidance for businesses on complying with consumer protection law when using AI agents. The guidance clarifies that businesses remain responsible for the actions of AI agents they deploy and outlines how to train them to ensure legal compliance.

CMA Report on Agentic AI's Consumer Impact

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published a report analyzing the potential impact of agentic AI on consumers. The report outlines how agentic AI is currently used, its future implications, and provides guidance for businesses on mitigating risks.

CMA Considers Energy Licence Appeal Decision Deadline

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is considering appeals from 5 energy companies against modifications to gas distribution licences made by Ofgem. The CMA is expected to decide whether to grant permission to appeal by 31 March 2026.

CMA Clears Constellation's Purchase of Aston Barclay Merger

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has cleared Constellation Developments Limited's acquisition of ABVR Holdings Limited (Aston Barclay). The decision follows an in-depth phase 2 investigation which found the merger would not substantially reduce competition in the UK used vehicle auction market.

CMA Market Study into Private Dentistry Sector

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched a market study into the £8 billion private dentistry sector. The CMA is seeking views from consumers and dental professionals to assess market functioning and identify potential issues.

CMA Call for Evidence: Private Dental Services Consumer Experience

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened a call for evidence regarding consumers' experiences with private dental services in the UK. The consultation seeks views on factors influencing choices and payment methods for private treatments and closes on March 19, 2026.