Lucky Strike Faces Bowling Monopoly Lawsuit

Lucky Strike Entertainment, the company behind Bowlero and AMF bowling centers, is facing a proposed class action lawsuit in the United States, according to several reports, including Reuters and Bloomberg Law.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Seattle by 11 bowlers from several states. They are seeking class action status on behalf of thousands of other bowlers.

---

---

According to the complaint, Lucky Strike and its subsidiaries allegedly violated federal antitrust laws and state consumer protection laws by acquiring hundreds of bowling centers across the country. The plaintiffs claim this helped the company build dominant market positions in many areas and gave it more control over prices and competition.

According to the lawsuit, Lucky Strike now operates more than 350 locations in North America and controls about 35% of U.S. bowling revenue.

The plaintiffs allege that this growth allowed the company to raise prices not only for lane rentals, but also for bowling shoe rentals, food, and beverages.

The lawsuit also mentions Bowlero’s past purchases, including AMF Bowling Centers, Brunswick’s former bowling center business, as well as the PBA. The plaintiffs argue that these deals helped the company gain more influence in the sport, not only through tournament access, but also through marketing and media.

Lucky Strike has denied the allegations. In a statement reported by Reuters, the company called the lawsuit “a meritless attempt by a startup plaintiffs’ firm to generate headlines.” Lucky Strike also said the bowling market remains competitive and that it is confident in its conduct and in the law. The company said it plans to defend the case vigorously.

The plaintiffs are asking for monetary damages. They also want the court to undo some past acquisitions and stop Lucky Strike from making more purchases in bowling and related markets.

Full lawsuit documents are available here.