Pepsi sued for allegedly violating decades-old law by giving exclusive discounts to Walmart

Core Viewpoint - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed a lawsuit against PepsiCo for allegedly offering preferential pricing to Walmart, which the FTC claims has led to higher consumer prices and disadvantaged other retailers [1][2]. Group 1: Allegations and Legal Context - The lawsuit alleges that PepsiCo violated the Robinson-Patman Act, a law that has seen limited enforcement in recent decades [2]. - The FTC's action aims to ensure fair competition among all retailers, regardless of size, according to outgoing FTC Chair Lina Khan [2]. Group 2: Company Response - PepsiCo has strongly disputed the FTC's allegations and criticized the manner in which the lawsuit was filed [1][3]. - The company emphasizes its position against the claims made by the FTC [3]. Group 3: Political Context - The lawsuit has seen opposition from the FTC's two Republican commissioners, who voted against the case [4].