Scaled-back watchdog rebrands as Consumer Futures

Consumer Focus has today revealed its new name of Consumer Futures as the watchdog scales back its interests to only the regulated markets.

The transformation comes ahead of Consumer Futures becoming part of Citizens Advice in April 2014.

The rebranded watchdog will now solely tackle the regulated markets and seeks to “prevent consumer harm by tackling issues before they become problems”.

The new organisation will no longer provide direct advice to customers, but will aim to help shape policy in the energy and postal sectors, as well as the water sector in Scotland.

Consumer minister Jo Swinson said Consumer Futures is “a vital element of the simpler and clearer consumer landscape that we have been setting up”.

He added: “We recognise that consumers have faced increased pressure on their spending from the rising costs of energy, water and postal services in recent years. That is why the work of Consumer Futures will be crucial to making sure that these markets work in the consumer’s interest.”

Mike O’Connor, chief executive of Consumer Futures, said becoming part of Citizens Advice will give the watchdog the opportunity to do more to protect consumers’ interests.

He said: “Bringing together the powers, responsibilities and policy expertise of Consumer Futures with the depth of evidence, insight and mission of the Citizens Advice service will create a more powerful advocacy and representative body for consumers across the economy.”