Six More Everyday Annoyances Burnham Could Target Beyond Booking Fees and Shrinkflation

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has vowed to take

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has vowed to take on exploitative corporate practices, while Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has pledged to outlaw misleading discounts and simplify the cancellation process for unwanted subscriptions, aiming to ease the daily financial pressures on consumers.

While these proposed 'everyday fixes' may not have the same long-term impact on personal wealth as, say, increasing pension contributions or capping rental costs, they would certainly remove a number of common frustrations. With that in mind, here are six other areas where Burnham could make a meaningful difference.

First, the practice of 'drip pricing'—where businesses advertise a low initial price only to add mandatory fees at checkout—remains widespread in sectors like hospitality and entertainment. A clear ban on such tactics would ensure the price you see is the price you pay, eliminating surprise charges for concert tickets, hotel bookings, and flights.

Second, the issue of 'subscription traps' extends beyond

Second, the issue of 'subscription traps' extends beyond mere cancellation. Many companies make it deliberately difficult to stop payments, requiring phone calls during limited hours or lengthy online forms. Mandating a single-click cancellation method for all digital services would give consumers greater control over their finances.

Third, 'shrinkflation'—where product sizes shrink while prices stay the same—has become a growing concern. Burnham could push for clearer labeling that highlights any reduction in quantity or weight, allowing shoppers to make more informed choices at the supermarket shelf.

Fourth, the cost of switching energy providers or broadband deals often deters people from seeking better rates. Introducing a standardised, fee-free switching process across all utility and telecom sectors would encourage competition and help households save money.

Fifth, 'junk fees' on basic banking services, such

Fifth, 'junk fees' on basic banking services, such as overdraft charges or ATM withdrawal costs, hit lower-income families hardest. A review of these charges, with a cap on excessive penalties, could provide much-needed relief.

Finally, the practice of 'dynamic pricing'—where prices surge based on demand, as seen with event tickets and ride-hailing—needs greater transparency. Requiring companies to display the base price and any surge multiplier clearly would prevent consumers from feeling exploited during peak times.

These measures, while seemingly small, could collectively reduce the cost of living for millions. Burnham's current focus is welcome, but expanding his scope to include these issues would deliver even broader benefits for households across the UK.