Amazon is declining to offer pre-orders for upcoming DVD and Blu-ray versions of Disney movies including “Muppets Most Wanted,” “Maleficent,” and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” — reportedly holding back the option from customers as a tactic in its contract negotiations with the studio.
The move, first reported by Home Media Magazine, mirrors Amazon’s tactics in its previous negotiations with Warner Home Video, which ultimately resulted in more favorable contract terms for the e-commerce giant, according to a report by Re/code, citing an unnamed source.
Amazon’s negotiating tactics are in the spotlight because of a separate dispute with book publishing giant Hachette, in which Amazon has similarly removed the ability to pre-order books from Hachette authors. The company this weekend defended its position in that negotiation, as authors took out a full-page ad in the New York Times challenging the company’s tactics.
We’ve contacted Amazon seeking comment on the Disney pre-orders.
