While the school year may be drawing to a close, there is unlikely to be a summer break for those involved in the Competition and Markets Authority's (CMA) early years education and childcare market study. The CMA has now formally launched the study, publishing both its statement of scope and call for evidence. 

Stakeholder meetings

The CMA recently held a series of stakeholder meetings, something of a sector-wide parents' evening, to provide further detail on the study and what participants can expect over the coming months. Since receiving the Education Secretary's letter of 26 May 2026 (which we discussed here), the CMA has indicated it plans to examine the impact of regulation on provider costs, barriers to entry and competitive dynamics within the sector. The CMA is interested in understanding how regulatory requirements, such as planning rules, affect providers and influence market outcomes. During the stakeholder Q&A sessions, the CMA also emphasised its desire to understand local market conditions and how experiences may differ across regions, including between London and other parts of the country. 

Draft information requests

We also understand that the CMA has already issued, or is in the process of issuing, draft requests for information to a number of larger providers, with further requests expected to follow. During the public webinar, these information requests were described as covering a "vast" range of topics, and a response period of around two weeks was mentioned. The CMA confirmed that it will send targeted formal information requests to larger private, voluntary and independent (PVI) providers. These requests are expected to seek detailed financial information, as well as information regarding business strategy and decision-making. 

Influencing outcomes

Responses to both the statement of scope and the call for evidence are due by 26 July 2026. These submissions represent an important opportunity for organisations to shape the CMA's understanding of the sector and influence the direction of the study. Our recent experience of CMA investigations and market studies demonstrates that preparedness and early engagement matter. Organisations that engage constructively and at an early stage are often better placed to influence outcomes. 

If you would like to discuss the market study or prepare a response, please get in touch.