Bowlero Faces Class-Action Lawsuit Over Alleged Anticompetitive Practices
A group of avid bowlers has filed a class-action lawsuit against Bowlero, a private equity-backed bowling corporation, accusing it of violating federal antitrust and state consumer protection laws. The complaint, filed in Washington state federal court, alleges that Bowlero executed a multi-year scheme to consolidate the fragmented bowling market, acquiring hundreds of centers to control approximately 35 percent of US bowling revenue. Plaintiffs claim this consolidation led to skyrocketing prices through algorithmic dynamic pricing, deteriorating lane quality due to reduced maintenance, and the degradation of bowling as an accessible pastime. The suit seeks damages and aims to unwind Bowlero’s acquisitions, including its purchase of the Professional Bowling Association, which plaintiffs argue was treated merely as a marketing vehicle. Additionally, the lawsuit accuses the company of securing preferential supplier deals unavailable to competitors while cutting operating hours. Bowlero, currently rebranding as Lucky Strike Entertainment, did not immediately comment on the allegations. This legal action highlights growing consumer backlash against private equity strategies in recreational industries, citing specific instances of exorbitant costs for families and individuals across various US markets.
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Bowlero Faces Class-Action Lawsuit Over Alleged Anticompetitive Practices
A group of avid bowlers has filed a class-action lawsuit against Bowlero, a private equity-backed bowling corporation, accusing it of violating federal antitrust and state consumer protection laws. The complaint, filed in Washington state federal court, alleges that Bowlero executed a multi-year scheme to consolidate the fragmented bowling market, acquiring hundreds of centers to control approximately 35 percent of US bowling revenue. Plaintiffs claim this consolidation led to skyrocketing prices through algorithmic dynamic pricing, deteriorating lane quality due to reduced maintenance, and the degradation of bowling as an accessible pastime. The suit seeks damages and aims to unwind Bowlero’s acquisitions, including its purchase of the Professional Bowling Association, which plaintiffs argue was treated merely as a marketing vehicle. Additionally, the lawsuit accuses the company of securing preferential supplier deals unavailable to competitors while cutting operating hours. Bowlero, currently rebranding as Lucky Strike Entertainment, did not immediately comment on the allegations. This legal action highlights growing consumer backlash against private equity strategies in recreational industries, citing specific instances of exorbitant costs for families and individuals across various US markets.
Jacobin