NAMM Statement Regarding Lawsuits Making Antitrust Claims

Carlsbad, CA, September 24, 2009—NAMM, the trade association of the international music products industry, today released a statement regarding recent class action lawsuits filed by plaintiffs making antitrust claims against the association.  The statement is as follows:

NAMM believes that the recent lawsuits filed by plaintiffs making antitrust claims against the association are without any merit.  These types of legal actions based on misinformation divert industry resources to defending against frivolous lawsuits and away from supporting the making and enjoyment of music. They are a detriment to the music industry, to music makers and to music lovers everywhere.

In March of 2009, NAMM entered into a consent agreement with the FTC. That agreement did not allege that NAMM or any other third party entered into a collusive agreement or that the alleged conduct resulted in higher prices or any type of consumer injury. To claim otherwise is untrue, irresponsible and contrary to the consent agreement. While NAMM is understandably disappointed that these groundless lawsuits have been filed, the association does have a legal strategy in place to defend and protect itself against these claims. The 108-year-old organization will continue with its efforts on behalf of the industry to strengthen music education in schools and connect people of all ages with the powerful and proven benefits of playing music.

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