Competition Bureau concludes examination of the distribution agreement for the Rolling Stones new DVD

OTTAWA, December 18, 2003 — The Competition Bureau announced today that the exclusive distribution agreement between Best Buy Canada Ltd. (Best Buy) and TGA Entertainment Ltd. (TGA), for the Rolling Stones Four Flicks music DVD set, does not violate the Competition Act.

HMV Canada Inc. (HMV) complained to the Bureau alleging that the exclusivity deal between Best Buy and TGA breached the Act by denying access to supply of a product and reducing competition at the retail level.

The Bureau concluded that the exclusivity agreement regarding one DVD set released by a single artist over a limited time period does not constitute an anti-competitive practice. It is important to note that exclusive arrangements are not in and of themselves contrary to the law. Nonetheless, the Bureau examines all complaints concerning such arrangements under the Competition Act.

The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that ensures all Canadians enjoy the benefits of a fair and competitive economy, low prices, product choice and quality service. It oversees the application of the Competition Act, the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, the Textile Labelling Act and the Precious Metals Marking Act.

Backgrounder

For media enquiries, please contact:
André Leclair
Senior Communications Advisor
Communications Branch
819-953-4257 , or 613-290-1583 (cell)

For general enquiries, please contact:
Information Centre
Competition Bureau
819-997-4282
1-800-348-5358