Implementation date confirmed for the first consumer law changes under the DMCC

The changes being implemented on this date include:

• the new consumer enforcement regime, including the new consumer enforcement rules prepared by the Competition and Markets Authority (“CMA”); and
• the unfair commercial practices aspects of the DMCC.

The new legal frameworks applying to subscription contracts and saving schemes are not expected until 2026.

With increased enforcement action now imminent, including the CMA being able to issue fines of up to 10% of global turnover in connection with consumer law breaches, business should familiarize themselves with the changes being brought about by the DMCC and address any deficiencies with their consumer law compliance as a priority (See A new dawn for UK consumer law | Eversheds Sutherland).

Eversheds Sutherland have a dedicated consumer law compliance team with extensive experience in dealing with CMA investigations. Our team works with our Competition, Trade and Foreign Investment lawyers in relation to the CMA’s new consumer law enforcement powers providing an holistic solution to our clients. In December we held a webinar together where we covered the consumer law and competition law changes under the DMCC. A link to the webinar and audio recordings can be found here: The UK's Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 webinar: key highlights.