The Coca-Cola company and Monster Beverage Corporation announce decision by arbitration panel
An arbitration tribunal of the American Arbitration Association has informed The Coca-Cola Company and Monster Beverage Corporation that the introduction and sale of Coca-Cola Energy is allowed under the terms of a contract between the companies.
The companies respect the arbitrators’ decision and appreciate that the dispute was resolved amicably. While there was a disagreement between Coca-Cola and Monster over contractual language, the companies value their relationship and look forward to their continued partnership.
Coca-Cola and Monster mutually agreed to submit their dispute to arbitration before the American Arbitration Association in October 2018. The arbitrators ruled June 28 that Coca-Cola Energy products fall within an exception to a non-compete provision relating to beverages marketed or positioned under the Coca-Cola brand.
Under the ruling, Coca-Cola can continue to sell and distribute Coca-Cola Energy, including in markets where it has already been launched. Coca-Cola is also free to launch the product in additional markets globally.