The US Federal Trade Commission has rejected calls to regulate listing fees ­ cash demanded from suppliers to secure space on retailers' shelves. The FTC began to scrutinise the practice of charging slotting fees in 2000, following allegations that they stifled competition and innovation and fostered a climate in which "whoever coughs up the most money gets the space". Suppliers said retailers were increasingly demanding cash up front or free merchandise before agreeing to stock their products, which put off some manufacturers from developing new products altogether. However, in a letter addressed to lawyers for the Independent Bakers Association, the Tortilla Industry Association and the National Association of Chewing Gum Manufacturers, the FTC said that other issues were more pressing on its time and resources. "The commission believes, in this instance, that other steps better serve the public interest," the letter said. {{NEWS }}