Booksellers Group seeks to support the FTC in its antitrust case against Amazon

The American Booksellers Association (ABA), the trade group representing independent booksellers, is stepping up efforts to intervene in the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) landmark antitrust lawsuit against Amazon. Late Friday, the ABA filed a notice with the Ninth Circuit appealing the court’s order that denied its motion to become a party to the case.

The FTC’s action accuses Amazon of stifling competition, which has drawn considerable interest and concern from various sectors, including independent booksellers. The ABA maintains that Amazon’s business practices have had a serious impact on small and independent bookstores, creating a monopolistic market environment that undermines fair competition.

Judge John Chun of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington denied the ABA’s request on June 3 without explanation. Both the FTC and Amazon opposed the ABA’s request, with the FTC arguing that the group’s claims would essentially create an entirely new lawsuit, complicating an existing case.

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In response to the court’s decision, the ABA is filing an appeal to ensure that the voices and concerns of independent booksellers are represented in the legal battle against Amazon. The group believes its participation is crucial to highlighting the broader consequences of Amazon’s market dominance for small businesses and consumers.

The FTC’s lawsuit against Amazon is a significant step in resolving antitrust issues in the digital age, with potential consequences for the operation of major technology companies.

Source: Bloomberg Law