FTC To Investigate Supply Chain Interruptions

As reported in the last several months, the Federal Trade Commission ("FTC") and other federal agencies continue to carry out the objectives of the Biden Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American Economy through various initiatives and enhanced investigatory tools.

In its latest effort, the FTC unanimously voted 4-0 on November 29 to conduct a study of the effect on competition from the supply chain interruptions that have occurred over the past year.  The study will look to answer two central questions that may be of interest to manufacturers: (i) why did these disruptions occur and (ii) whether they are leading to specific "bottlenecks, shortages, anticompetitive practices or contributing to rising consumer prices." According to the FTC announcement, the orders will be sent to nine large retailers, wholesalers and consumer good suppliers in the United States. In addition, the FTC is soliciting voluntary comments from retailers, consumer goods