Shutterstock Disputes CMA’s Interim UK Editorial-Market Concerns While Welcoming Global Finding

Shutterstock disputes UK editorial-market concerns in CMA interim report

Shutterstock says it welcomes the UK Competition and Markets Authority’s provisional finding that the proposed merger with Getty Images is not expected to raise competition issues in the global stock content market, but it strongly disputes the CMA’s interim conclusion that the deal may substantially lessen competition in the UK editorial market. The company issues the statement after the regulator’s provisional decision, calling the CMA’s UK-focused analysis incomplete and not reflective of how customers source editorial content.

Shutterstock argues the CMA’s assessment fails to account for the composition of the UK market, regional competitive dynamics and the breadth of alternatives available to customers, and it says those factors materially change the competitive picture the regulator presents. The company commits to continued, constructive engagement with the CMA and says it will file a formal response to the interim report within the authority’s timetable, while continuing to supply detailed information and rebuttals to support its case.

While defending the transaction’s competitive effects, Shutterstock notes it remains cooperative with the U.S. Department of Justice as that separate review progresses. The company expresses disappointment with the CMA’s interim framing — saying it "does not believe the analysis or interim conclusions reflect the composition of the UK market, the level of regional competition within it or the alternatives available to customers" — and signals it will press its arguments through the formal CMA process rather than accept the interim view.

Business scope and strategic positioning

Shutterstock frames itself as a family of brands delivering scalable creative and generative-AI solutions, powered by a global network of millions of creators and proprietary technology. The company highlights that it hosts one of the world’s largest and most diverse collections of licensable assets, along with data and AI solutions, advertising and distribution services, exclusive editorial content and full-service studio production aimed at supporting businesses, creatives and brand leaders.

Regulatory caution and public information

In its release, Shutterstock reiterates customary forward-looking disclaimers, warning that non-historical statements about the transaction and future plans involve risks and uncertainties and speak only as of their dates. The company directs stakeholders to its website and social channels on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook and YouTube for updates as both the CMA and DOJ reviews continue.