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ARTICLE · 04 AUGUST 2026

"We're Just Getting Started": The CMA's New Consumer Enforcement Powers In Action

Mayer Brown
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The UK's Competition and Markets Authority has transformed consumer enforcement in its first year under new powers, moving with unprecedented speed to impose millions in fines and order substantial refunds across multiple sectors. From drip pricing in driving schools to hidden fees on ticket platforms and unfair parking charges, the CMA is demonstrating that consumer protection violations now carry serious financial consequences—with liability extending beyond consumer-facing subsidiaries to parent co

United KingdomAntitrust/Competition Law
Mark Hills
Mark Hills
Sarah Wilks
Sarah Wilks
David Birch
David Birch
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Introduction

One year on from the coming into force of its extensive new direct consumer enforcement powers, and associated fining regime, under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 ("DMCCA"), the Competition and Markets Authority ("CMA") has moved with notable speed and purpose. Consumer enforcement is now a frontline regulatory priority, backed by meaningful financial penalties and mandatory redress orders. Importantly, these powers extend beyond consumer-facing subsidiaries - liability can be traced up through corporate structures to parent companies, particularly relevant to financial sponsors. In its first year (April 2025 to April 2026), the CMA opened investigations into 14 businesses, ordered more than £1.3 million in consumer refunds, imposed fines approaching £6 million, issued 157 advisory and warning letters, and sent 46 information notices. Since April 2026, the CMA has continued to work at pace in this area, opening further cases and issuing updated

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