Beer Distributor To Pay $2-Million Fine For Trade Practice Violations
The attorney general of New Jersey has announced an
“unprecedented” $2-million fine in a settlement with a craft beer
and spirit wholesaler accused of trade practice violations. Div. of
Alcoholic Beverage Control v. Hunterdon Brewing Co. LLC, No.
L0002 (N.J. Dep’t of Law Public Safety, consent order filed May
31, 2017). New Jersey alleged that Hunterdon Brewing sold tap
systems at below-market prices then overcharged those customers
by including “miscellaneous draft charges” on invoices. Further,
the company allegedly ignored state credit regulations and entered
into discriminatory, “unequal financing” terms of sales with its
customers. Hunterdon has agreed to pay the fine in four
$500,000 installments over the next 12 months; $250,000 of the
final payment will be waived if compliance audits show no further
violations.
“Fair market prices exist for a reason,” said Attorney General
Christopher Porrino in a June 12, 2017, press release. “Consumers
suffer when these laws and regulations are ignored.”
Issue 638
