Michigan Sues Hoffmann Family of Companies Over Ferry Monopoly
Attorney General Dana Nessel filed an antitrust lawsuit to break up the Hoffmann Family of Companies' alleged monopoly on Mackinac Island ferry and parking services.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel filed an antitrust lawsuit in Ingham County Circuit Court against the Florida-based Hoffmann Family of Companies, alleging the firm created an illegal monopoly over ferry services and mainland parking for Mackinac Island. The state claims the company eliminated competition by acquiring Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry in 2022 and the Mackinac Island Ferry Company in June 2024, the latter of which had previously purchased Arnold Transit Company in 2016.
According to the lawsuit, these acquisitions gave the firm 100% control of commercial passenger ferries and docks, and approximately 80% of long-term mainland parking in Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. Nessel alleges the company aggressively raised fares and parking fees despite promises to maintain pricing and threatened to cease all operations if the City of Mackinac Island did not renew franchise agreements on the company's terms.
The Government of Michigan is seeking the forced sale of the Mackinac Island Ferry Company, restitution for overcharged customers, civil penalties, and treble damages to restore competition. The Hoffmann Family of Companies denied the allegations, stating that a federal court has already twice rejected similar antitrust claims brought by the City of Mackinac Island. Attorney General-elect Eli Savit reportedly supports the legal action.
