What is the timeline for the CMA changes?
Updated
The CMA published its provisional findings on 15th October 2025, followed by its final report on 24th March 2026.
Following the publication of the final report, the CMA now has up to 6 months to put in place Orders and undertakings to implement the reforms. The measures will be introduced in stages according to the complexity of the remedy:
Information Transparency: Requirements for clear pricing displays and ownership disclosure are expected to be among the first measures implemented, likely from late 2026, subject to the CMA’s final order.
Operational Changes: More complex requirements, such as new systems for prescription fee caps and mandatory "unbundled" invoicing are likely to be phased in through early 2027, with exact timings to be confirmed by the CMA.
This rollout is designed to give all veterinary practices - regardless of size - sufficient time to update their software and billing processes while ensuring pet owners benefit from improved transparency as soon as possible.
