Allegations and Legal Framework
The FTC filed a lawsuit against , alleging violations of the by offering preferential pricing to a large retailer, confirmed to be , leading to higher consumer prices.
This legal action marks a revival of enforcement of the long-dormant 1936 law, aimed at preventing manufacturers from giving unfair pricing advantages to larger retailers over smaller ones.
Responses and Political Context
Pepsi contested the lawsuit, claiming its pricing practices align with industry norms and do not favor specific customers. Walmart did not comment on the allegations.
The lawsuit received mixed reactions within the FTC, with the two Republican commissioners, including , opposing the case. The split vote reflects broader political debates on antitrust enforcement.