United Kingdom on Consumer Trading & Unfair Trading

The retail landscape is evolving with three primary models: bricks-and-mortar, online-only, and omnichannel. Emerging structures like pop-ups, subscriptions, and social commerce offer innovative ways for businesses to engage consumers.

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority is investigating Ticketmaster for potential consumer law breaches, focusing on its "dynamic pricing" practices for Oasis tour tickets. The CMA is reviewing transparency, fair practices, and compliance.

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 will be implemented in phases. Parts 1, 2, and 5 will begin by early 2025, focusing on competition regulations. Parts 3 and 4, covering consumer protection, will follow in April 2025, with subscription reforms starting in 2026.