Dan Brecher
Counsel
212-286-0747 dbrecher@sh-law.comKey Contacts
Back
Amazon is a retail powerhouse, so it can be an author’s best friend or, as Hachette – one of the big New York publishers – is finding out, it can also be your worst enemy. Amazon has had an uncomfortable relationship with the writing community and it has been taking action to discourage shoppers from buying books by Hachette. In response, authors took to social media to object to Amazon’s bullish tactics.
Some of the tactics being used by Amazon include charging more for books by Hachette, recommending other books by different authors, or delaying delivery of Hachette’s books (sometimes for weeks). Hachette claims it is timely delivering books to Amazon, while the online retailer claims they are out of stock. These machinations leave editors and authors powerless.
The feud began when contract negotiations between Amazon and Hachette fell apart. Amazon was seeking better terms and Hachette wasn’t budging. In an attempt to put pressure on Hachette, Amazon began its secret online subterfuge.
Both sides of the fight have something to lose. Amazon reportedly controls approximately a third of the book business, which makes it essential to big publishers like Hachette. Amazon’s marketing has focused on being the consumer’s friend, so it stands to tarnish its reputation as it pushes away readers and authors. With book retailers such as Barnes & Noble struggling, Amazon has become the primary means for authors to sell their books.
It is assumed that Amazon is playing hard-ball with Hachette and other suppliers because its stock shares are down this year and the analysts are not optimistic about earnings in their forecasts. Sadly, Amazon’s attempt to focus on the bottom line will only hurt the little guys, who are also their primary customers.
If you have any questions about the issues discussed above or would like to discuss other business law matters, please contact me or the Scarinci Hollenbeck attorney with whom you work.
- Practices: Corporate Transactions & Business
- Locations: Red Bank, NJ, New York City, Little Falls, NJ
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
Why Every Business Should Conduct an Annual Insurance Coverage Review
Most New Jersey business owners purchase insurance policies, file them away, and assume they are protected if a claim arises. Without a regular insurance coverage review, many companies discover gaps only after a lawsuit, cyberattack, property loss, or other significant event occurs. An annual insurance coverage review can help businesses identify potential risks, ensure their […]
Author: George McGowan
Demand Letters & Cease and Desist Letters: When to Send One (and When Not To)
Businesses and individuals often encounter situations where another party breaches a contract, fails to pay a debt, or continues harmful conduct. In many such disputes, a precisely drafted demand letter or cease-and-desist letter serves as a powerful legal tool. It can frequently resolve the dispute and avoid litigation. While demand or cease-and-desist letters can resolve […]
Author: George McGowan
How to Effectively Use Contracts to Manage Risk
Key provisions in your contracts, including those relating to indemnification, insurance, and defense, are essential to contract risk management. While sometimes considered “boilerplate,” these provisions play a pivotal role when determining which party is responsible for certain costs and liabilities. They must always be negotiated and drafted carefully. Indemnification Clauses Businesses should never overlook the […]
Author: George McGowan
Understanding Portability for Estate and Gift Tax
Portability of estate and gift tax enables a surviving spouse to inherit any unused portion of their deceased spouse’s federal estate and gift tax exemption. So, if one spouse doesn’t utilize their full exemption, the surviving spouse can effectively double their exemption amount with regard to estate tax liability. For married couples, portability offers a […]
Author: Marc J. Comer
Pet Trusts in New Jersey and New York: A Practical Estate Planning Tool
For many of us, pets are more than companions—they are members of the family. Yet they are often overlooked or inadequately provided for when it comes to estate planning. A pet trust offers a legally enforceable way to ensure that your animal continues to receive proper care if you become incapacitated or pass away. As […]
Author: Marc J. Comer
How Can Trusts Be Used in Business Succession?
For many New Jersey business owners, a closely held company represents decades of work, financial investment, and personal sacrifice. Trusts in business succession planning are one of the most effective tools for protecting that value, allowing founders to control how and when the business passes to the next generation while reducing the risk of disputes, […]
Author: George McGowan
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.