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The Roadshows formed part of SPVS’ wider work to support the profession through the CMA process, including member engagement, collaboration with other veterinary organisations and constructive responses to the CMA’s proposals.
Designed to help practices move beyond simply understanding the proposed CMA remedies, the Roadshows focused on the practical question many practices are now asking: “How do we make our practices more CMA resilient?”
The events featured sessions covering finances and medicine margins, marketing, technology and strategic planning, alongside open discussions where practice leaders shared ideas, concerns and practical approaches with peers facing similar challenges.
A key theme emerging across all five events was that practices are starting from very different positions. While some are already experiencing increasing prescription migration and online competition, others continue to benefit from strong client loyalty and robust in-house medicine sales. Levels of digital maturity, operational efficiency and preparedness also varied significantly.
The Roadshows reinforced that there is no single “correct” response to the CMA remedies. Instead, resilience will depend on practices developing strategies that reflect their values, client base, local market and long-term ambitions.
Workshop discussions explored a range of approaches, from contingency planning and operational efficiency through to proactive differentiation, communication and client engagement. Delegates consistently recognised that competing on price alone is unlikely to provide a sustainable long-term solution for many independent practices.
Discussions also highlighted growing concerns around online competition, prescription growth and the potential loss of client relationships and practice data to third-party providers. At the same time, many practices are already adopting new technologies and workflow systems to improve communication, strengthen client relationships and reduce administrative burden.
Pete Orpin, SPVS President and CMA Working Group member commented:
“Across all five Roadshows, the level of engagement and openness from delegates has been incredibly encouraging. Practices clearly recognise the challenges ahead, but there was also a strong sense of determination, innovation and willingness to adapt. One of the biggest messages from the events is that independent practices are already thinking strategically about how they evolve and remain resilient in a changing marketplace. SPVS has worked hard to make
sure the voice of practice owners and leaders is heard throughout this process, but these Roadshows were about moving from policy into practice — helping teams think clearly, plan practically and protect what makes their businesses sustainable.”
SPVS thanked sponsor Vetsure plus all contributors and delegates for participating so openly throughout the series and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting practices through practical guidance, collaboration and representation as the profession continues to navigate the proposed CMA changes.
For more information about SPVS and its ongoing support and CMA resources for members, visit https://spvs.org.uk/
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