Total Wine & More files suit to end state’s ‘price-fixing’ for wine and spirits

Independent wine, beer and spirits retailer Total Wine & More has filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court in Connecticut challenging what it calls the state”™s “antiquated laws and regulations” that require wholesalers and retailers to set a minimum price consumers pay for wine and spirits.

According to the suit filed Aug. 23 by the Hartford-based company, which operates a location in Norwalk, Connecticut”™s mandatory minimum pricing statute results in retail prices for wine and spirits that “may be in excess of 25 percent higher than prices offered for identical products in surrounding states.” Total Wine further stated that “The price-fixing by wholesalers and retailers constitutes restraint of trade and a violation of the federal Sherman Antitrust Act.”

“It”™s time for Connecticut to finally enter the 21^st century when it comes to the sale of wine and spirits,” said Total Wine Vice President, Public Affairs Edward Cooper. “The loser in the current equation is the consumer. The current pricing structure drives them to out-of-state outlets in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Striking down these laws and regulations allow consumers the freedom to pay lower prices for wine and spirits.”

The company said that by year”™s end it will operate 150 superstores in 21 states, with plans for further expansion.