Snoop Dogg and Master P Accuse Walmart and Post of Sabotaging Cereal Brands
In a legal battle stirring the food and entertainment industries, rappers Snoop Dogg and Master P have taken a stand against Walmart and Post Consumer Brands. The duo alleges that their cereal brands were deliberately undermined through prohibitive pricing and distribution practices that kept the products out of consumers' reach. This lawsuit, filed by Broadus Foods — a venture founded by Calvin Broadus (Snoop Dogg) and Percy Miller (Master P) — in Minnesota's Dakota Country District Court, accuses Post of engaging in deceptive practices under the guise of a partnership aimed at manufacturing and distributing Snoop Cereal and Momma Snoop.
The heart of the contention lies in the claim that Post agreed to collaborate on the cereal brands under false pretenses, following the rappers' decision to decline Walmart's offer to purchase their company. The partnership, envisioned as a profit-sharing agreement, quickly soured as the musicians observed what they describe as Post's lack of commitment to their shared goals and vision for the brand.
The rappers' complaint outlines several grievances, notably that the cereals quickly vanished from Walmart shelves within months of their launch in July 2023. Despite indications of being sold out or out of stock, investigations revealed ample supplies languishing in Walmart's stockrooms, allegedly coded not to be displayed for sale. Moreover, the decision to set the price point above $10 a box starkly contradicted Broadus Foods' mission to provide affordable food options.
Represented by attorney Ben Crump, the plaintiffs underscore their intention behind establishing Broadus Foods: to foster diversity within the food industry, create opportunities for minority-owned products, and support charitable causes aimed at alleviating hunger and homelessness. This lawsuit paints a picture of corporate sabotage, alleging that Post's actions were calculated to prevent Snoop Cereal from reaching its potential market.
In response, Post asserts that it had been enthusiastic about the partnership and had made significant investments in the venture, expressing disappointment at the lackluster consumer demand. Similarly, Walmart emphasized its track record of supporting entrepreneurs, noting that various factors, including consumer demand and seasonality, influence product sales.
This legal confrontation highlights the challenges faced by minority entrepreneurs in navigating partnerships with large corporations and raises questions about the commitment of these corporations to genuinely support diversity and empowerment initiatives within the industry. As the case progresses, it promises to shed light on the intricate dynamics between cultural icons venturing into entrepreneurship and the corporate giants dominating retail and distribution landscapes.
