Trainline, Virgin Atlantic and Red Driving School Investigated over Pricing
The regulator said mandatory fees of up to £7 were not always shown upfront, raising concerns over hidden charges and unfair competition.
- The Competition and Markets Authority launched formal investigations into Trainline, Virgin Atlantic, and Red Driving School over concerns customers were not shown full prices upfront during the booking process.
- These probes address 'drip pricing,' where mandatory charges appear late in the booking process. The CMA said such practices can lead shoppers to face unexpected costs or falsely appear cheaper than competitors.
- Investigators are examining how Red Driving School displayed a £7 mandatory booking fee and digital fee for driving lessons. Virgin Atlantic Holidays faces scrutiny over resort fees and local taxes, while Trainline is under review for advance ticket charges.
- Trainline stated it is committed to "transparent booking experience with clear pricing and genuine value" and has proactively engaged with the CMA. Virgin Atlantic Holidays said it takes customer responsibility seriously, while Red Driving School has been contacted for comment.
- Consumers affected by these practices could receive compensation if the CMA determines the companies broke the law. The regulator continues reviewing the points raised as businesses cooperate with the investigation.
9 Articles
9 Articles
Virgin Atlantic and Trainline Face UK Probe Over Misleading Retail Pricing
Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd. and Trainline Plc face an investigation from the UK watchdog over misleading retail pricing, in the first move since the country’s new prime minister promised to ease the cost of living on consumers.
Evening Standard
Trainline, Virgin Atlantic and Red Driving School investigated over pricing
Consumers affected could get compensation if it is found that the companies broke the law, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said.
Trainline and Virgin Atlantic face watchdog's 'drip pricing' probe
The UK’s competition watchdog has launched an investigation into three companies over concerns that customers were not shown the total upfront price when buying train and coach tickets, holidays or driving lessons. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) will probe the activities of Trainline, Virgin Atlantic and RED Driving School as part of a wider clampdown on misleading pricing practices. The crackdown specifically targets mandatory char…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
