What is the Robinson–Patman Act?
The Robinson–Patman Act is a United States federal law passed in 1936 that seeks to protect smaller, independent retailers from unfair competition posed by large chain stores and other powerful entities. It is part of the U.S. antitrust laws, which are designed to ensure fair competition among businesses in a free market economy. Under the Act, businesses are prohibited from charging different prices to different customers for the same product or service. This prevents businesses from exploiting their market power to drive competitors out of business by offering lower prices to certain favored customers. It also makes it illegal for large chain stores to offer discounts that are not available to independent retailers. In New Hampshire, the Robinson–Patman Act is regulated by the Office of the Attorney General of New Hampshire. The office is responsible for enforcing antitrust laws, which provide individuals and businesses with protection against unfair business practices. Anyone found to be engaging in unfair competition or violating the Robinson–Patman Act can be subject to civil and criminal penalties. The Robinson–Patman Act is an important law that helps to ensure that competition in the marketplace is fair and that consumers have access to a range of competitively priced goods and services. It is also a key part of New Hampshire’s commitment to protecting the economic health of smaller, locally owned businesses.
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