The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA) is officially here – and it’s not messing about.

It’s one of the most significant shake-ups to the UK’s consumer and competition laws in decades. And with key provisions now in force (1 January for the digital markets and competition rules; 6 April for the consumer protection regime), it’s time for in-house teams to take stock, get across the detail, and start sense-checking compliance across the business.

So, what’s changed – and what does it mean for you?‍

Big Tech, big scrutiny‍

If you work in tech, digital services, or rely on the big platforms to get products to market, this one’s for you. The DMCCA gives the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) some serious new powers to rein in the biggest players:

• Firms with Strategic Market Status (SMS) will face new, bespoke conduct rules.
• The CMA can now block or attach conditions to certain mergers without needing to go to court.
• SMS firms must report certain transactions in advance – think of it as a ‘heads up’ system to keep deals in check.
  

The goal? A fairer, more competitive digital economy – and faster action when dominance tips into harm.‍

Say goodbye to ‘drip pricing’ and subscription traps‍

The consumer protection reforms are especially punchy for e-commerce and marketing teams. And they’re going to need your help.

Here’s what’s now expressly illegal:

• Hiding unavoidable fees – like booking or delivery charges – until checkout.
• Fake or incentivised reviews, with platforms expected to detect and remove them.
• Tricky subscription models – clearer sign-up, reminder, and cancellation rules are now a must.
• A broader list of automatically unfair commercial practices, tightening up how businesses engage with customers.

The days of sneaky small print are numbered.

‍Faster enforcement. Bigger fines.‍

The CMA’s toolbox just got an upgrade. It can now:

• Fine companies directly for breaches of consumer law – no court proceedings needed.
• Issue penalties of up to 10% of global turnover, or £300,000 for individuals.
• Impose remedies – including redress, contract changes, and improved internal compliance measures.

If that’s not a reason to get your house in order, we don’t know what is.‍

And yes, competition law just got more global‍

The DMCCA also tweaks the UK’s merger control rules, introducing:

• New thresholds and a test for so-called ‘killer acquisitions’ – those that might snuff out innovation or reduce competition.
• An expanded extra-territorial reach – so anti-competitive conduct outside the UK can still fall under the CMA’s spotlight if it affects UK markets.

For global or scaling businesses, this means more strategic thinking is needed upfront when it comes to M&A and commercial arrangements.‍

What in-house teams should do next‍

The good news? With the right moves now, you can help your business stay compliant and competitive. Here’s where to start:

• Audit your online practices – from how fees are displayed to how subscriptions are managed.
• Sense-check T&Cs and marketing materials – are they clear, compliant, and consumer-friendly?
• Keep an eye on SMS designations – particularly if you’re a supplier to or competitor of Big Tech.
• Bookmark CMA guidance – it’ll evolve fast, and so should your internal policies and training.