Regulate bot bulk-buying and resale scalping of high-demand consumer goods

Background

This summer's heatwaves have turned essential cooling equipment into a target for opportunistic resellers, pricing out the families and vulnerable people who need it most. We call on the Government to crack down on scalping and hold resellers to account.

Additional details

Heatwave demand has sold out air conditioners in minutes, letting scalpers relist stock at inflated prices. eBay UK alone has 116 new listings priced 40-300% above RRP (£540-£660 vs £770-£2,050). Resold units often lose warranty cover and bypass F-gas certified installation rules, risking buyers' safety. We ask Government to: ban bulk-buying bots, require marketplaces to act on repeat scalpers, and cap resale markups on essential seasonal goods, with real penalties for breaches.