CMA warns Wowcher over selling tactics

The regulator has called on online platform Wowcher to change its selling practices or face court action.

The Competition and Markets Authority said on Thursday it had found evidence that Wowcher, which offers deals on a wide range of products and services, was pressurising customers into making quick purchases.

In particular, it flagged tactics such as countdown clocks and claims that items were running out or in high demand.

"The CMA has found evidence that these claims risk giving the misleading impression that products will increase in price, or will not be available, when this is often not the case," the regulator noted.

It has therefore written to Wowcher outlining both its concerns and ways the company could formally address them.

If Wowcher fails to provide satisfactory undertakings, the CMA could apply for a court order requiring it to comply with its obligations under consumer protection law.

Sarah Cardell, chief executive of the CMA, said: "Misleading urgency claims put pressure on shoppers to make quick decision when spending their money.

"We want to send an important message to Wowcher and other online businesses that time is running out on pressure selling tactics, and we are calling on them to agree to change the way they do business to avoid the risk of court action."

In a statement, Wowcher said: "The aim of our marketing claims is always to provide accurate and useful information to our customers when they are browsing our website.

"We look forward to continuing to engaging with the CMA on this matter."