Have your say on competition and consumer protection issues in the North West and how these align with the future plans of the Competition and Markets Authority
Interested in how consumer protection and competition law enforcement is keeping pace with the needs of businesses and people in the North West? Join the Chair of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to find out more and voice your views.
In today's tough economic conditions, it's really important that markets work well for people and businesses. At the CMA we have redoubled our efforts to help tackle cost-of-living challenges, focusing on what matters most to people - such as having somewhere to live, feeding our families, looking after ourselves and others, and buying the goods and services we need online. Making sure that people get a fair deal, and that businesses compete on a level playing field, are both at the core of what the CMA does.
Looking ahead to 2024/25, we have been preparing for the CMA's new responsibilities and powers under the UK Government's Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill. These powers mean the CMA will be able to tackle competition problems in digital markets swiftly and effectively, while supporting innovation that benefits people, businesses and the wider economy. The new law will also strengthen the CMA's ability to protect consumers from unscrupulous businesses, including tougher fines for unfair trading practicies (up to 10% of annual global turnover).
So, what does this mean for people and businesses in the North West?
Join the CMA’s Chair, Marcus Bokkerink and Jessica Lennard, the CMA’s Chief Strategy and External Affairs Officer, to discuss:
- The aims of the CMA - how do CMA priorities intersect with the needs of local businesses and people?
- Supporting innovation and access to new markets – how can we ensure fair, well-functioning competition in the North West?
- What are the pressing consumer protection issues in the North West - how can the CMA assist in overcoming these?
About the CMA
The CMA is the UK’s principal competition and consumer protection authority and has an expanding presence in the North West with a new office established in Manchester. We exist to help people, businesses and the UK economy by promoting competitive markets and tackling unfair behaviour. Our work has never been more important, given the role that competitive markets play in meeting cost-of-living challenges, supporting growth and innovation across the UK economy.
This event forms part of the CMA Annual Plan consultation – looking ahead to CMA priorities, focusing on digital market and consumer protection themes.
About Marcus Bokkerink, CMA Chair
Marcus Bokkerink is from Greater Manchester; he was raised and went to school here. With close ties to the region, Marcus feels strongly about local success and growth opportunities. He has a track history of investing in start-ups and advising the entrepreneurs who lead them. Prior to joining the CMA, Marcus was Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG). While at BCG Marcus led the firm’s UK and European Consumer and Strategy Practice, established and developed BCG’s China business.
About Jessica Lennard, CMA Chief Strategy and External Affairs Officer
Jessica leads the CMA’s strategy and communications teams and has a wealth of experience from a diverse range of businesses across multiple regulated industries including Visa, OVO Energy and TalkTalk. Jessica has particular interests in AI, data and digital markets.
Manchester
M2 5NS
