The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has intervened to ensure Wowcher alters its online selling strategies, aiming to provide clear and accurate information to consumers browsing the platform.

The CMA's investigation was prompted by concerns that Wowcher's use of countdown timers and marketing claims like 'Running out!' and 'In high demand!' could create a false sense of urgency, potentially influencing purchasing decisions.

The CMA found that Wowcher's 'urgency' claims might mislead consumers into believing products are scarce when they are not, leading to rushed purchases or overspending.

Specifically, the CMA flagged Wowcher's practice of enrolling customers in its paid 'VIP membership' through pre-ticked boxes, potentially without customers' full understanding or consent.

As a result of the CMA's actions, Wowcher has committed to using clear and accurate countdown timers, ensuring marketing claims reflect actual stock levels and sales figures, and refunding over 870,000 customers signed up to 'VIP membership' via pre-ticked boxes.