United Kingdom: Issued CMA order requiring Wowcher to change its online sales practices

On 16 November 2023, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) issued an order requiring Wowcher, an online deals platform, to alter its selling practices, which may impose unfair pressure on customers to make hurried purchases. Following an investigation initiated in March, the CMA noted that it is particularly concerned about Wowcher's use of urgency claims such as countdown clocks and statements such as "Running out!" or "In high demand!" on its website, creating a sense of urgency that could be misleading. The CMA has found evidence that these claims may give a false impression of potential price increases or product unavailability. Additionally, CMA claims that Wowcher engages in other unfair practices, including hidden charges and automatically enrolling consumers into VIP memberships through pre-ticked boxes, leading to unintended purchases. The CMA has communicated its concerns to Wowcher and suggested measures for the company to follow to address them. Wowcher has the opportunity to respond and avoid legal action by agreeing to change its online sales practices.