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Attorney General Mike DeWine
Movie Theater
Chains investigated for possible Anticompetitive Conduct
(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today confirmed that
his office is investigating the nation’s three largest movie theater
chains – AMC, Cinemark, and Regal – for possible antitrust violations.
The investigation centers on whether AMC, Cinemark, and Regal engaged
in conduct that unfairly excluded competitors from the market and kept
new theaters from entering the market. Exclusionary conduct, generally,
can limit consumer choice and stifle innovation.
“All businesses should have a fair chance to compete,” Attorney General
DeWine said. “We’re investigating the movie theater chains because of
concerns that smaller, independent businesses have been unfairly pushed
out of the market. We’re conducting a thorough review to determine
whether or not antitrust laws have been violated.”
AMC, Cinemark, and Regal previously have disclosed in public filings
that they received civil investigative demands from the Ohio Attorney
General’s Office. The investigation also has prompted nine other states
to open similar probes into the theaters’ conduct.
If an antitrust investigation uncovers violations of state or federal
laws, the Ohio Attorney General can seek an injunction or other
monetary remedies.
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