Consumer protection is a growing enforcement priority for regulators in the UK and across Europe. Authorities such as the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), the European Commission (EC) and the pan-European Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPCN) have intensified their scrutiny of unfair commercial practices, misleading claims, and digital customer journeys.

New consumer protection rules and enforcement practices are reshaping the regulatory landscape for businesses. We monitor these changes closely to help our clients identify and manage emerging risks.

We have significant expertise in handling complex consumer protection matters, including investigations before the CMA, EC and CPCN. We provide commercially focused advice that supports our clients’ interests and maintains constructive relationships with the authorities.

In addition to handling investigations, we advise on day-to-day compliance issues. This includes helping clients ensure their customer communications and practices align with current regulations both in a B2C and B2B context, conducting risk assessments, implementing compliance policies, and establishing procedures for managing consumer complaints effectively.

KEY EXPERIENCE

We advised Asda in relation to the Competition and Markets Authority’s fashion greenwashing investigation.

We advised Booking.com and Agoda on a Europe-wide CPCN investigation in relation to online hotel booking.

We advised Barratt Redrow on its successful defence against a consumer protection investigation, which resulted in no commitments or infringement findings.

We advised the Coke System on a greenwashing complaint submitted by BEUC to the EC and the CPCN.

We advised Taylor Wimpey on the CMA leasehold consumer protection investigation.

We have advised various clients on website terms and conditions, fake reviews, pricing practices (including drip pricing), subscription contracts and green claims.

By drawing on our combined expertise in consumer protection, competition, data protection, dispute resolution, sustainability and technology, we tailor our teams to meet each client’s specific needs and deliver targeted, effective support.