Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 – key consumer law changes

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (‘the Act’) changes existing consumer law by introducing fining powers of up to 10% of the total value of the Trader’s turnover for serious breaches. Changes have also been made to the rules on unfair commercial practices and a new category of ‘subscription contracts’ is being introduced.

Most of these provisions came into force in April 2025, therefore lawyers and their clients need to familiarise themselves with the new consumer landscape as soon as possible.

This session summarises the key consumer law related provisions of the Act with particular emphasis on the following topics:

Enforcement Provisions

• Changes to the powers of the court
• Changes to the powers of the CMA
• Introduction of monetary penalties – fixed amount v daily rate

Unfair Commercial Practices

• Repeal of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008
• Changes to the definition of ‘unfair commercial practice’
• New rules concerning fake consumer reviews and drip pricing

Subscription Contracts (in force from Autumn 2026)

• Definition of ‘subscription contracts’
• Pre-contract information to be provided
• Provision of reminder notices
• Cooling off rights

Top 3 Things Facts From the Webinar:

• Understand the changes made by the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024
• Adapt existing practices to ensure ongoing compliance
• Be aware of enforcement priorities

Who This Is For:

Lawyers and non-lawyers with an interest in consumer law.

Level of Expertise:

Intermediate – some previous knowledge or awareness required.

CPD Hours:

This live webinar provides you with 1 hour of learning.

Attendees will receive a CPD certificate upon completion of this course.

Learning Objectives

• To understand the changes made to UK consumer legislation
• To consider what changes need to be made to existing practices to ensure ongoing compliance
• To comprehend the latest thinking of the Competition and Markets Authority concerning enforcement priorities