Here’s your October round-up of insights from across the UK veterinary sector, from market trends and industry developments to key regulatory updates you’ll want to know about.
The Locum Market
Rates continue unmoved in comparison to twelve months ago and locum flexibility continues to be crucial in terms of navigating the market. Good roles get filled quickly, by good locums. We’re talking in minutes in some cases. Staying in regular touch with us means we’re better placed to make sure we’re getting you the most suitable roles. If you have availability, please send it over to us to ensure you’re at the front of the queue.
Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) Issues Provisional Decision
As we’re sure you’ve all seen, by far the most significant development this month is the publication of the Competition and Markets Authority’s provisional decision into the UK veterinary services market which was released last week.
Key findings and proposals include:-
The CMA estimated that average veterinary prices rose by approximately 63% between 2016 and 2023, far outpacing inflation.
It found that corporate practices charge on average about 16.6% more than independent practices.
The regulatory system was deemed “not fit for purpose”.
The CMA has signalled 21 proposed remedial measures, such as: mandatory publishing of price lists; clearer disclosure of practice ownership; a proposed price cap on written prescriptions (around £16).
From a veterinary professional’s viewpoint, these changes may have a number of implications:-
Greater administrative burden for practices to comply.
A potential shift in how practices communicate fees and treatment options to clients, including the need to tell clients they can order medication online.
For locums and staff, there may be an indirect effect on practice finances as the cost-side comes under shareholder scrutiny, which may impact decisions around staffing.
For independent practices, the spotlight on “independent vs corporate” differences may bring new opportunities (or at least new narratives) in the recruitment market.
The final decision is expected by March 2026, with some measures potentially coming into force before the end of 2026.
BVA has welcomed the recognition of professional standards but expressed concern about how certain measures (for example the blanket publication of price lists) may impact service delivery in practices with variable case-mix.
Many seem to think that the proposed remedies do not go far enough, with one commentator saying it is “rearranging the deckchairs on the Titanic”. IVC Evidensia responded by saying “"While we already comply with a number of the CMA's proposals, the full package will inevitably increase the administrative burden for the veterinary sector", whilst others such as Medivet and Pets at Home were more supportive in their reactions.
Recruitment Implications
While the CMA investigation dominates the headlines, there are several recruitment-specific points worth mentioning:
Independent practices appear to be gaining renewed traction. The regulatory scrutiny of large groups and heightened focus on transparency may support independents in differentiating themselves. For vets and nurses this could mean increased flexibility and potential for greater clinical autonomy in independent setups.
From a recruitment-market perspective the message remains: roles still get filled before formal advertisement. For both locum and permanent candidates, staying in touch and alert to opportunities remains critical.
For locums: payment terms, shifts and booking flexibility continue to matter. With potential change in practice economics, some practices may look to scale back locum usage to save costs (we’re seeing a bit of this already), but there’s still enough work out there if you’re flexible.
Stay up to date
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Mental Health Support Details
VetLife - 0303 040 2551
Samaritans - 116 123
Mind - 0300 123 3393
If we can help you in finding any locum or permanent work, or if your practice has a vacancy or locum requirement, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Remember to join our Facebook group to keep an eye on any locum roles before anyone else!
Jennee, Neil, Jack & Laura
Jurassic Recruitment