United Kingdom: Opened consultation on Provisional Findings by Competition and Markets Authority concerning investigation into proposed acquisition of Figma by Adobe (Phase 2)

On 28 November 2023, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) opened a public consultation until 19 December 2023 on potential remedies for Adobe's proposed acquisition of Figma following the publication of its provisional findings from its Phase 2 investigation. Figma provides web-based collaborative tools for designing products. Adobe offers software, including product design software such as Adobe XD. In its Phase 2 investigation, the CMA concluded that the acquisition would eliminate competition in the product design software market. Specifically, competition would be substantially lessened in all-in-one screen design software and in the supply of creative design software. The digital design sector, valued at nearly GBP 60 billion in the United Kingdom, could be adversely affected by reduced choice, innovation, and the development of competitive products. The final decision will be issued by 25 February 2024.