COMBS WINES AND SPIRITS LLC v. DIAGEO NORTH AMERICA, INC.
A lawsuit has been filed by Combs Wines and Spirits LLC against Diageo North America, Inc. in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of New York. The lawsuit alleges that despite Diageo's public commitment to diversity and inclusion, the company has failed to treat its Black partners equally. Specifically, the lawsuit concerns Diageo's treatment of Combs Wines and its owner, Sean "Diddy" Combs, who has a longstanding business relationship with Diageo for two spirits brands: Ciroc Vodka and DeLeon Tequila. The plaintiff alleges that Diageo has unfairly limited the distribution of Ciroc and DeLeon to "urban" consumers, while neglecting to invest in their production, distribution, and sales. The lawsuit seeks injunctive relief to force Diageo to provide equal treatment to Combs Wines and its brands, as well as billions of dollars in damages for neglect and breaches of contract. The lawsuit also alleges that Diageo's conduct was tainted by racial prejudices, resulting in significant harm to Combs Wines' business.
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