Nope, we’re not referring to Elvis Presley’s Suspicious Minds but rather in relation to the perils consumers have been facing when falling into subscription traps set by traders. So, how will the Digital Markets, Consumers and Competition Bill (Bill) protect consumers?
Subscription contracts – why the change?
It has been estimated that consumers spend approximately £573 million per year on subscriptions they have forgotten about and £602 million on subscriptions that have automatically rolled over from a free or reduced-price trial.[1] These alarming statistics illustrate the importance of addressing reforms in this area – and the Bill aims to do just that by establishing regulations that govern the operation of businesses that provide subscription contracts.
How will the Bill regulate subscription contracts?
The Bill introduces additional obligations on businesses offering subscription contracts and further rights for consumers to allow them to exit such contracts easily. The Bill contains exemptions when it will not apply including, specifically, in relation to certain subscription contracts which can be found at Schedule 19 of the Bill. These include, for example, contracts for the supply of utilities, financial services and supply of services regulated by Ofcom.
For subscription contracts that are within scope of the Bill, we have outlined below the key requirements throughout the duration of a subscription contract.
What are the risks of non-compliance?
There are various enforcement/protections included within the Bill. For example, the new trader duties (as set out above) will become an implied term in every subscription contract. This means that if traders do not provide the pre-contract information or reminder notices, or do not facilitate easy termination of the contract, they will be in breach of the subscription contract. Such breach will allow consumers to cancel the contract at any time, penalty free.
If that is not enough of a deterrent, non-compliance could also result in:
- consumers being entitled to walk away from a subscription contract where the trader fails to obtain the required express acknowledgement from a consumer;
- criminal prosecution and fines for failure to provide the initial pre-contract information for off-premises contracts;
- consumer damages claims for breach of contract;
- orders for specific performance;
- significant financial penalties (e.g. £300,000 or, if higher, 10% of global turnover) by way of the new enforcement powers delegated to the Competition and Markets Authority under the Bill; and/or
- reputational damage.
How does the Bill provide for future changes?
The Bill provides the Government with the power to supplement certain provisions relating to subscriptions (for example, around the consequences of consumers exercising their right to cancel). Through secondary legislation the Government can therefore ensure that consumers continue to be effectively safeguarded. It therefore seems that the Government are aware of the importance of ensuring that the Bill can remain responsive to the constant changes in the ever-evolving consumer landscape.
What does this mean for your business?
Businesses will need to review their business processes and operations to ensure compliance including reviewing: consumer facing terms, website user journeys, communications with customers and staff training.
If you would like to know more about the Bill and other fundamental reforms it seeks to introduce, please read our articles below:
- The Digital Markets, Competition And Consumers Bill Has Been Inked
- The Digital Markets, Competition & Consumers Bill’s fake news on fake reviews
- Consumer law: New penalties are fine, but what other powers fit the Bill?
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Disclaimer
This information is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. Please contact us for specific advice on your circumstances. © Shoosmiths LLP 2024.