The Price-Fixing Meat Trust
Seattle's wholesale meat dealers move in lockstep to drive up prices on beef, pork, and mutton.
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For the second time within a few weeks, the wholesale meat dealers have made a combination to advance prices. The former adjustment did not remain in effect long, and prices have been cut continually. The present agreement fixes the price on fresh beef at 6 to 8 cents, which is about 1 cent higher than meat has been selling. The price of mutton has been advanced 1/2 cent and fixed at 6 cents, while pork has advanced from 7 to 8 cents. Whether this agreement will remain long in full effect remains to be seen.
“For the second time within a few weeks the wholesale meat dealers have made a combination to advance prices.”
This 1892 report highlights the perennial tension between consolidated corporate pricing and the cost of living for Seattle residents. Today, the debate has shifted from wholesale meat prices to the impact of corporate landlords and retail chains on the local economy, proving that the 'meat trust' of the Gilded Age was just an early chapter in Seattle's long-running struggle with market monopolies.
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