The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has initiated a formal investigation into suspected anti-competitive practices concerning the supply of Solidworks computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software, alongside related products and services, within the UK. The probe, launched on 30 June 2026 under Chapter I of the Competition Act 1998, aims to determine if market players have engaged in conduct that stifles competition.
Companies currently under the CMA's scrutiny include Dassault Systemes UK Limited, Solid Solutions Management Limited, and Visiativ Solutions UK Limited. These businesses are prominent providers in the crucial CAD/CAE software sector, which underpins design and engineering processes across numerous UK industries, from manufacturing and aerospace to product development and architecture.
At this early stage, the CMA has clarified that no conclusion has been reached regarding whether there is sufficient evidence of a competition law infringement to issue a statement of objections to any party. The Authority emphasises that not all investigations result in such a statement, and no assumption should be made that the Competition Act 1998 has been breached.
Should the CMA proceed to issue a statement of objections, the affected parties will be granted an opportunity to present their case through written and oral representations before a final decision on any potential legal breach is made. This process is standard in CMA investigations, allowing for due process and comprehensive consideration of all evidence.
Furthermore, the CMA has highlighted that during its investigations, it may collect, use, and share personal data, adhering to the General Data Protection Regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018. All parties involved are also under a legal duty, as per Section 25B of the Competition Act 1998, to preserve all relevant documents and information related to the investigation. Failure to comply with this duty, without reasonable excuse, could result in a fine from the CMA.