0:00
0:00
UK Competition Watchdog Flags Concerns Over Proposed Getty Images–Shutterstock Merger
Regulator says tie-up between two of the world’s largest stock image providers could reduce choice and raise prices for customers
The United Kingdom’s competition regulator has identified preliminary concerns over the proposed merger between Getty Images and Shutterstock, warning that the deal could lessen competition in the market for licensed stock images and videos.
In an initial assessment, the Competition and Markets Authority said the combination of two of the world’s largest stock content providers may reduce choice for customers, including media organisations, advertising agencies and corporate clients that rely on licensed visual material.
The regulator indicated that the merger could potentially lead to higher prices, reduced innovation or less favourable terms for buyers.
Getty Images and Shutterstock announced plans to combine their operations in a transaction designed to create a global leader in visual content, citing the need to respond to evolving market dynamics, including the rapid development of artificial intelligence tools and increased competition from new digital platforms.
The companies have argued that the merger would strengthen their ability to invest in technology, expand content offerings and compete more effectively on a global scale.
The Competition and Markets Authority said it is concerned that the deal would significantly consolidate market share in key segments of the UK stock image and footage market, where both companies already play prominent roles.
The watchdog has opened a formal inquiry and is now considering whether to move the case to a more in-depth Phase Two investigation unless suitable remedies are offered.
Under UK merger rules, the regulator will assess whether the transaction could result in a substantial lessening of competition.
If concerns remain unresolved, it has the authority to impose conditions, require divestments or ultimately block the deal.
The companies have stated that they are cooperating fully with the review process and remain confident that the merger will deliver benefits to customers and contributors alike.
The regulatory scrutiny in the UK follows similar reviews in other jurisdictions, reflecting the global significance of the proposed tie-up in the visual content industry.
In an initial assessment, the Competition and Markets Authority said the combination of two of the world’s largest stock content providers may reduce choice for customers, including media organisations, advertising agencies and corporate clients that rely on licensed visual material.
The regulator indicated that the merger could potentially lead to higher prices, reduced innovation or less favourable terms for buyers.
Getty Images and Shutterstock announced plans to combine their operations in a transaction designed to create a global leader in visual content, citing the need to respond to evolving market dynamics, including the rapid development of artificial intelligence tools and increased competition from new digital platforms.
The companies have argued that the merger would strengthen their ability to invest in technology, expand content offerings and compete more effectively on a global scale.
The Competition and Markets Authority said it is concerned that the deal would significantly consolidate market share in key segments of the UK stock image and footage market, where both companies already play prominent roles.
The watchdog has opened a formal inquiry and is now considering whether to move the case to a more in-depth Phase Two investigation unless suitable remedies are offered.
Under UK merger rules, the regulator will assess whether the transaction could result in a substantial lessening of competition.
If concerns remain unresolved, it has the authority to impose conditions, require divestments or ultimately block the deal.
The companies have stated that they are cooperating fully with the review process and remain confident that the merger will deliver benefits to customers and contributors alike.
The regulatory scrutiny in the UK follows similar reviews in other jurisdictions, reflecting the global significance of the proposed tie-up in the visual content industry.
