The Ohio Attorney General's Office confirmed Thursday its investigation into local movie theater chains for possible anti-competitive conduct.
According to Attorney General Mike DeWine, the investigation centers on whether AMC, Cinemark and Regal engaged in conduct that "unfairly excluded competitors from the market and kept new theaters from entering the market."
“All businesses should have a fair chance to compete," DeWine said. “We’re investigating the movie theater chains because of concerns that smaller, independent businesses have been unfairly pushed out of the market. We’re conducting a thorough review to determine whether or not antitrust laws have been violated.”
The investigation has also prompted similar probes in nine other states.
If investigators find that a violation occurred, authorities can seek an injunction or other monetary remedies.
