FTC investigates price discrimination by Pepsi and Coca-Cola

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is conducting a preliminary investigation into potential price discrimination by beverage giants Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO) Co and PepsiCo (NASDAQ:PEP) Inc in the soft drink market, Politico reported on Monday citing sources.
According to the report, the pricing strategies of both companies are being scrutinized under the Robinson-Patman Act.
Price discrimination against small businesses by large franchises and chains is prevented by U.S. antitrust law.
At least two sources told Politico that for at least a month, the FTC has been seeking data and other information from large retailers, including Walmart (NYSE:WMT) Inc, on how they purchase and price soft drinks. According to the report, Walmart is not a target in the investigation.
FTC, Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Walmart did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comments.