Collusion and Price Fixing in the American Newspaper Industry: Market Preservation Trends,1890–1910

Abstract

This study cites examples of price fixing and collusive practices used among newspapers in several cities across the United States during the late 1890s and early 1900s. An examination of the E.W. Scripps papers reveals secret agreements or “combinations” that were utilized among competitors to gain market advantages or to limit competition. The practices included, but were not limited to, profit pooling, price fixing, collusion, and contract exclusivity. The extent to which these agreements were established in differing markets and the candid discussion among the parties involved suggest these agreements were widespread in their use by Scripps newspapers.