Competition record
Brunswick
Deep profile · 1 linked library matter
Brunswick makes bowling equipment and has operated bowling centers. The 1977 Pueblo Bowl-O-Mat decision defined antitrust injury, and the library records the case as won by the defendant.
Overview
Brunswick built its name on bowling. It sells lanes, pinsetters, and the other equipment a center needs, and it has owned bowling centers itself. The company also sells recreational boats and marine engines, so the modern business is wider than a single alley.
In the 1960s Brunswick bought bowling centers that were failing. Rival operators sued. Their complaint was that the centers stayed open and kept competing, including on price, and that the rivals therefore made less money. A damages award treated that loss as an antitrust injury.
In 1977 the Supreme Court reversed. Harm to a competitor is not enough. The plaintiff has to show injury from a reduction in competition. Keeping a failing center open can increase the options a bowler has. The library status is won by the defendant.
Competition footprint
Bowling equipment and bowling-center operation were the markets in the case.
The acquisitions kept distressed centers in business instead of letting them close.
The doctrine that came out of the case limits who can recover damages after a merger.
Consumer & business angle
Bowlers were the customers who still had a center to visit because the acquired alleys stayed open.
Independent center owners were the rivals who sued because that competition continued.
What to watch
- How merger plaintiffs plead antitrust injury after Brunswick, meaning harm to competition.
- Brunswick's current bowling and marine businesses, which are separate from the 1977 judgment.
Markets
bowling equipment · bowling centers · recreational boats · bowling alleys · recreational entertainment
Also known as: brunswick bowling, brunswick corp