Rappers Snoop Dogg and Master P, both highly successful in the hip-hop industry, recently took an unexpected turn by venturing into the world of cereal.
In a surprising lawsuit against retail giant Walmart and Post Consumer Brands, the music moguls claim that their vision for their company, Broadus Foods, was to establish a legacy for their families and contribute to a brighter future.
With net worths of $160 million and $200 million, respectively, Snoop Dogg and Master P founded Broadus Foods in 2022, marking a historic moment as the first Black-owned cereal brand in the United States.
The duo aimed to create “an African-American brand for the American people,” breaking barriers in the business world.
However, according to the lawsuit filed in a Minnesota district court, Post and Walmart allegedly conspired to thwart their cereal venture.
Despite a collaboration to introduce Snoop Cereal flavors, including Fruity Hoopz, Cinnamon Toasteez, and Frosted Drizzlerz, the artists claim that Post, which owns popular cereal brands like Honey Bunches of Oats and Raisin Bran, worked with Walmart to keep Snoop Cereal off store shelves, hindering their market presence.
The lawsuit seeks $50,000 in damages, branding the alleged actions of Walmart and Post as “diabolical.” While symbolic in the face of Post’s $6 billion market cap and Walmart’s $457 billion, the artists emphasize the principle behind the legal action.
Post responded to NBC Los Angeles, expressing excitement about partnering with Broadus Foods and making substantial investments in the business. Despite the lawsuit, Post Consumer Brands continues to thrive, with its parent company’s stock price experiencing a 2% increase to $105.72 since the complaint was filed.
Walmart, through a spokesperson, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and cited various factors, including consumer demand, seasonality, and price, affecting product sales. The lawsuit adds a twist to the cereal industry, where two iconic rappers navigate legal battles against corporate giants to protect their business legacy.