Proposal to make a market investigation reference into veterinary services for household pets in the UKCMA consultation

Today, 12 March 2024, the CMA has announced it intends to laumch a marked investigation into veterinary services. There will be a 4 week consultation on this proposal. CMA has identified a number of concerns it wishes to explore more thoroughly

• Consumers may not be given enough information to enable them to choose the best veterinary practice or the right treatment for their needs.
• Concentrated local markets, in part driven by sector consolidation, may be leading to weak competition in some areas.
• Large corporate groups may have incentives to act in ways which reduce choice and weaken competition.
• Pet owners might be overpaying for medicines or prescriptions.
• The regulatory framework is outdated and may no longer be fit for purpose.

More information can be found here