Neil Averitt commentary: Beer deal prompts fresh look at law on distributional restraints

Washington, D.C. (October 30, 2015) -- Liquor-store shelves are beginning to groan under the weight of new craft beers. These beers have introduced Americans to unusual new flavorings such as extra malt, lemon, and peaches; and to startling new brand names such as Fat Tire, Crooked Stave, and Raging Bitch. This beguiling but vulnerable variety has highlighted the importance of things like exclusive dealing contracts and access to distribution. Prompted by the implications of the proposed global merger of the Anheuser-Busch and Miller brewing companies, several state and federal antitrust agencies are now taking a fresh look at these long-neglected vertical issues that potentially could affect all industries....

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