Tag: Retail

Staff authorized to file a motion for a preliminary injunction to block the proposed acquisition of Office Depot, 1nc. on grounds that the $4 billion acquisition would allow the combined firm to control prices for the sale of office supplies in numerous metropolitan areas in the United States. On June 30, 1997, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted the Commission's motion for the injunction. Staples abandoned its acquisition plans in July 1997.

Consent order settles charges that the acquisition of The Stop & Shop Companies, Inc. would substantially reduce supermarket competition in 14 communities in New England. The order requires the divestiture of 30 supermarkets within 30 days to buyers who would operate the stores in competition with Ahold's "Edwards" supermarket chain.

Consent order settles charges that New Balance fixed and controlled the resale prices of its shoes in an effort to raise retail prices for its athletic footwear.  According to the complaint, New Balance entered into agreements with some of its retailers to restrict price competition, and threatened to terminate or suspend shipments to retailers who did not abide by the pricing restrictions.