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CMA launches IVC business merger inquiry
The CMA is investigating whether the acquisitions has or may result 'in a substantial lessening of competition'.
The regulator is investigating eight completed acquisitions.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched an investigation into the acquisition of multiple businesses acquired by Independent Vetcare Limited (IVC).

Among the IVC acquisitions under investigation include Swayne & Partners Ltd, Bury St Edmunds, and Penrose Veterinary Group Limited, Colchester.

The Initial Enforcement Orders, published on the 17th of November, state that the CMA is considering whether 'a relevant merger situation has been created' and whether the situation has or may result 'in a substantial lessening of competition in any markets or markets in the United Kingdom'.

The orders also maintain that practices under investigation must carry out their business separately from IVC and maintain their separate sales or brand identity. The full list of acquisitions to be investigated is as follows:
  • Penrose Veterinary Group Limited
  • Kevin Castle (Pet Care) Ltd
  • Swayne & Partners Ltd
  • Treforest Veterinary Clinic Limited
  • Mercer & Hughes Limited
  • Swaffham Veterinary Centre Ltd
  • Anglesey Pet Clinic Ltd
  • Chiltern Equine Clinic
IVC has been directed to appoint a monitoring trustee to ensure compliance with the orders, available on the CMA's website.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.