NAMM Statement Regarding Lawsuits Making Antitrust Claims
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.
Media Contacts
NAMM Communications - John Dolak, Director
johnd@namm.org
619.735.4028
VITTEK PR – Josh Vittek
josh@vittekpr.com
760.505.5674
The Lippin Group
namm@lippingroup.com
201.317.6618
About NAMM
The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) is the not-for-profit trade association representing the $18.1 billion global music products industry, with a mission to strengthen the music industry and promote the pleasures and benefits of making music. Comprised of more than 9,000 member companies and individual professionals worldwide, NAMM supports an industry that employs more than 400,000 people globally. Through its programs, events and advocacy efforts, NAMM advances a shared vision of a thriving, innovative and inclusive music products industry where every person has access to the joy of music-making. NAMM also operates The NAMM Foundation, investing in the future of music through the support of education, global grantmaking and featured programs that expand participation in music across all ages and stages of life. Headquartered in Carlsbad, Calif., NAMM serves as a leading voice for the global music products industry through public policy, advocacy, education and other member services. For more information, visit NAMM.org, and learn more about NAMM’s Vision, Mission & Objectives at NAMM About Page.