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ARTICLE · 02 JULY 2026

CMA Clamps Down On Checkout Tricks As Consumer Enforcement Pipeline Accelerates

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The UK Competition and Markets Authority has ramped up consumer enforcement with settlements against Marks Electrical and StubHub UK, both involving pre-selected extras and hidden fees. These cases demonstrate the CMA's aggressive approach to online pricing practices and its willingness to target high-profile consumer-facing businesses with significant fines and mandatory customer refunds.

United KingdomConsumer Protection
David Weaver
David Weaver
Hafsah Nawaz
Hafsah Nawaz
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The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has continued its rapid expansion of consumer enforcement activity with three developments in June 2026 that reinforce its focus on online pricing practices and choice architecture.

A familiar fact pattern is emerging: the CMA identifies a relatively high-profile target in a priority sector, and in a relatively quick process agrees a settlement comprising a fine and a consumer redress mechanism. The settlements with Marks Electrical and StubHub UK, and the launch of an investigation into Ryanair, illustrate the point, and signal the CMA's willingness to take on some of Europe's highest-profile consumer-facing businesses.

Marks Electrical and StubHub: pre-selected extras and hidden fees

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