"Birkin Bag Antitrust Lawsuit Targets Hermès' Exclusive Sales Practices"

A lawsuit filed in San Francisco accuses luxury retailer Hermes of violating antitrust law by requiring customers to make substantial purchases of other goods before being allowed to buy its coveted Birkin handbags, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. The lawsuit claims that sales associates are directed to offer Birkins only to customers with a sufficient purchase history, using the bags to coerce additional purchases for which they receive a commission. The plaintiffs seek class action status and monetary damages, alleging that Hermes' selling tactics are unfair.