Hermès Birkin Buyers File Lawsuit Alleging Illegal Sales Tactics to Increase Profits

• Lawsuit alleges Hermès is a monopoly, says requiring customers to buy other items first to purchase a Birkin bag is illegal "tying" under antitrust law

• Hermès produces limited number of notoriously expensive Birkin bags each year, does not sell them online, and buyers allege being told they must purchase other Hermès items first

• Lawsuit claims Hermès uses "tying" to increase Birkin prices and company profits from the bags

• Legal experts say lawsuit will be very difficult to prove, but could damage luxury brand's image even if unsuccessful

• Getting a Birkin is exclusive process, with bags selling for up to $450,000 and only select customers offered ability to purchase