Less than 10 days after the Competition and Markets Authority announced the provisional decision of its veterinary market investigation, CVS Group has announced its intention to move from the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange to the Main Market.

The CMA provisional decision was widely seen as less interventional than had been expected, largely demanding transparency over things like pricing, practice ownership and billing, which many practices had already implemented.

However, one provisional decision was that regardless of their status, all veterinary practices should inform owners that they can ask for a written prescription and explain that they may be able to have it fulfilled cheaper online. 

Two of the largest online veterinary pharmacies are animed.co.uk, which is owned by CVS, and petdrugsonline, which is owned by IVC. 

So in effect, the decision asked independent practices to direct their clients to competitor businesses.

What you might call a bitter pill to swallow.

In the light of the announcement, CVS issued a press release citing the "clarity" afforded by the CMA announcement and the fact that it does not think the CMA's proposed remedies will have a material impact, as factors behind its decision to seek a Main Market listing.

The company has also announced a £20m share buyback programme.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.