FTC prepares to sue largest U.S. alcohol distributor, alleging 'secret kickbacks'
The Federal Trade Commission is preparing an antitrust lawsuit against the largest U.S. alcohol distributor, Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits, two sources familiar with the matter tell CNBC. The suit could be filed in a matter of weeks. The FTC's case is not yet finalized. But one source said the commission is likely to allege that Southern Glazer's has been providing "secret kickbacks" to large retail customers, in violation of the 1936 Robinson-Patman Act. The potential legal action was first reported by Politico. Florida-based Southern Glazer's distributes alcohol for over 7,000 brands in 44 states, and reported $26 billion in revenues in 2023, according to Forbes. Founded in 1968, the company serves as a middleman between alcohol producers and the liquor stores that con
