Experienced Kansas City Construction Law Firm

Top dental suppliers in trouble with FTC

On Behalf of | May 17, 2018 | Business Litigation

Each year, approximately 85 percent of the 10 billion dollars spent in Missouri and around the country on dental products and services is dominated by three massive companies. Recently, these same companies came under fire from the Federal Trade Commission for allegedly violating antitrust laws. The complaint states the three dental suppliers conspired to refuse discounts to large purchasing groups who sell products and services to smaller individual and group dental practices.

The charges received national media attention and had a direct impact on the stock prices of Benco Dental Supply Company, Henry Schein, Inc., and Patterson Companies, Inc. When the news broke, the companies were already involved in business litigation several other privately-filed antitrust lawsuits.

During the investigation, the FTC reviewed emails and other inter-company communications and determined the distributors feared the prices of their products and services would be driven down if the buying groups were allowed to purchase items at a discounted rate. The companies purportedly made an agreement with each other to deny discounts in an effort to keep their prices higher. Benco Dental Supply Company is also being accused of trying to get a fourth distributor to join in the agreement. All three companies deny the allegations and have vowed to fight these charges in court.

For those who find themselves in a contractual dispute regarding products or services from a supplier, the legal process can have a tremendous effect on the flow of goods and services through the company. In order to make sense of the complex judicial process, it might be helpful to consult with an experienced business litigation attorney who can act as an advocate and help to quickly find a positive resolution to the problem. Great legal guidance can make all the difference in getting a business out of a legal quagmire and back on a successful track.

Testimonials

“Long & Robinson was in our corner from the beginning through the end, giving great advice and guidance, and working with us to bring our issue to resolution. Would highly recommend for construction representation.”

— Jeff Wasinger, Vice President – Haren Companies

Testimonials

“Burke Robinson and the Long & Robinson law firm were a pleasure to work with and were also excellent in every way. The firm fully supported a contentious claim, providing guidance and insight at every turn. Although it’s challenging for an organization, as the plaintiffs, to maintain a positive feeling throughout a lengthy process, Mr. Robinson and his team continued to offer encouragement with helpful legal analysis and reporting. A critical part of reporting and case management is a detailed review, understanding and strategy for the complex elements of a claim such as ours and Mr. Robinson demonstrated that in abundance. I highly recommend Long & Robinson to any organization that needs the same kind of legal team as we did.”

— Chris Durkin, Director – One Park Place Tower Condominium Association

Testimonials

“Burke has been absolutely amazing to work with. I feel we have a very unique situation that is rather hard to explain and put all of the pieces together. Burke has been amazing at assisting our HOA and addressing all of our questions in a quick and professional manner. If he doesn’t know the answer he finds it and responds quickly. I would recommend Burke to anyone in need of legal services. Our HOA is extremely happy we found him!”

Testimonials

“I was in the construction business for 40 years. In that time I have had the need for legal help a few times. This firm provided expertise and service that was light years beyond others law offices. We COULD NOT have done better. Thank you so much.”

Testimonials

“We looked at many options and selected Long Robinson based on reputation and our interviews. Burke Robinson has proven to be a great choice.”