CCPC urges schools to protect parents from anti-competitive practices 

June 17, 2025

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has warned schools that their back-to-school arrangements could harm competition and increase costs for families. In a letter to primary and post-primary schools, the CCPC has made recommendations on back-to-school costs, advising schools to use generic uniform items and ensure a competitive process underpins the appointment of any exclusive suppliers for school uniforms and tech devices.

The CCPC has asked schools to consider whether the arrangements that they have in place are likely to restrict competition and increase costs for parents and guardians during the back-to-school season.

These recommendations follow a CCPC survey of primary and post-primary schools in Ireland which revealed that 75% of schools surveyed have at least one uniform item that must be bought in a recommended retailer.

Additionally, while 84% of parents support uniforms, 30% believe they are not getting good value for money, 33% think the requirements are not fair and reasonable, and 41% don’t believe there is sufficient choice.

Úna Butler, Member of the Commission, said

“Back-to-school can be an expensive and stressful time for families. By promoting competition among suppliers, schools can help to reduce costs and deliver good value.

By having branded uniforms and exclusive suppliers, schools can unwittingly suppress competition between businesses and drive up prices. There are very simple steps schools can take to create more competitive markets for school supplies, allowing parents to shop around and secure better back-to-school value.

Competition is most intense when consumers have options, so we recommend that schools appoint multiple suppliers and avoid exclusive suppliers. Where a specific supplier needs to be appointed, schools should regularly review their arrangements to ensure that the supplier is offering the best mix of quality, price, and service to parents and guardians.”

A summary of key points from the CCPC recommendations is below:

• Use more generic uniform items and limit the use of bespoke or embroidered items.
• Appoint multiple suppliers and avoid exclusive suppliers. Where a specific supplier needs to be appointed use a competitive selection process.
• Don’t increase costs for parents by requiring them to buy non-essential products as part of a bundle when they purchase a device.

More information is available in the guidance document.

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