Guidance

Showmen’s Guild: proposed changes to rules

Published 22 August 2017

This guidance was withdrawn on

This consultation closed on 3 October 2017. For the commitments as accepted by the CMA please see the case page.

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/showmens-guild-proposed-change-of-rules/showmens-guild-proposed-changes-to-rules

In response to an investigation by the CMA, the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain, the UK’s largest association of travelling showmen, plans to change a small number of its rules.

We want your views.

The Showmen’s Guild proposed changes

We think that the interests of both fairgoers and showmen are being harmed by rules of the Guild that:

  • prevent showmen – Guild members or not – who can offer improved services to fairgoers from replacing poorly-performing showmen who have protected rights at fairs
  • prevent new fairs starting 4 weeks before, and within 2 miles of, existing fairs, even if fairgoers and showmen want them
  • stop showmen outside the Guild working with Guild members, making it more difficult to put on fairs
  • make it more difficult for showmen to join the Guild and provide amusements at Guild fairs

The Guild has offered to make changes to fix these problems.

What changes are being proposed?

  • It will become easier for landowners (usually local authorities) to improve fairs by replacing poor-performing showmen, potentially bringing greater choice, new ideas and an even more attractive service for fairgoers.
  • Rules that don’t allow showmen to start new fairs where they are wanted will be changed and regularly reviewed. These rules won’t apply to showmen who are invited to operate fairground rides at events and festivals.
  • members and non-members will find it easier to start fairs, as it will be easier for them to work together
  • It will be easier to join the Guild and offer amusements at the 7000 or so Guild fairs which take place each year.

You can read the full consultation document as well as a letter from the CMA to members of the Guild on the case page.

What should you do?

Contact the CMA if you have any comments on the proposals:

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