CMA Market Investigation Update

26 September 2024

The CMA has provided an update (25/09/24) on its ongoing market investigation into veterinary services for household pets in the UK.

Over the past few months, the CMA has continued to gather information to assess concerns which resulted in the CMA confirming its decision to carry out a market investigation earlier this year.

Information gathered so far has been obtained through CMA visits to a range a veterinary practices across the UK; roundtable discussions with veterinary professionals and animal charities; and ‘teach-ins’ with various veterinary organisations to better understand how the veterinary sector works. In addition, through application of its legal powers, the CMA has requested vets, veterinary businesses and veterinary organisations, including BSAVA, to provide specific information. All of this information is being analysed and will be an important part of the evidence underpinning the investigation.

The CMA has also appointed its veterinary advisory panel the purpose of which is to provide the CMA with clinical and practical insight and analysis on an ad-hoc basis throughout the course of the investigation. The panel will provide advice on a number of areas including how veterinary practices operate, how practices interact with pet owners, clinical aspects and sector regulations. It is comprised of two veterinary nurses and four veterinary surgeons. Details in full can be accessed here.

All of the information, evidence and insights gathered are intended to support the CMA in making well-informed decisions and reaching the right conclusions to the investigation.

The CMA has also updated its administrative timetable intended to apply for the duration of the CMA’s activity, full details can be found here.

For further information please access the CMA website here.

Previous information provided by BSAVA and how BSAVA and other veterinary organisations are working together to respond to CMA activities, is available via the following links: https://bsava.com/article/cma-market-investigation-bsava-and-veterinary-associations-respond-to-cmas-issues-statement/ and https://bsava.com/article/competitions-market-authority-review-veterinary-associations-guidance-to-support-veterinary-practices/.