United Kingdom: Competition and Markets Authority opened consultation on report finding that Getty Images’ acquisition of Shutterstock may result in lessening of competition in supply of editorial content

On 19 February 2026, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) opened a consultation on its interim report regarding Getty Images’ proposed acquisition of Shutterstock until 12 March 2026. The CMA provisionally found that the transaction may result in a substantial lessening of competition in the supply of editorial content in the UK. It considers Getty to be the market leader and Shutterstock one of a limited number of competitors offering a broad range of editorial material. The merged entity would hold a share close to or above 50%, in a market characterised by high barriers to entry and limited prospects for new entry. Customers, including major broadcasters and publishers, expressed concerns. In contrast, the CMA provisionally concluded that the merger would not result in a substantial lessening of competition in the stock content globally. Although Getty and Shutterstock compete closely, the CMA found they face significant and growing competitive pressure, including from Adobe and Canva, and from the increasing use of AI-generated content. The assessment is based on internal documents, evidence from customers and industry bodies, and an independent survey. The CMA’s provisional view is that, absent the merger, the parties would likely have continued to compete broadly as they do currently.