FTC Lawsuit Against Southern Glazers Wine and Spirits

The Federal Trade Commission has launched a lawsuit against Southern Glazers Wine and Spirits, citing allegations of anti-competitive pricing practices that favor larger retailers over smaller liquor stores. The FTC claims that since 2018, the distributor has offered greater discounts to major chains like Costco and Kroger, putting small businesses at a disadvantage. This lawsuit highlights significant concerns regarding the opaque nature of alcohol distribution in the U.S., where a few distributors dominate the market. The implications of this case could reshape pricing dynamics for smaller retailers, impacting consumer choices and prices in communities.