Dollarama Inc., a popular discount retailer, has agreed to a $2.6 million settlement following a class-action lawsuit that accused the company of improperly charging and failing to disclose environmental handling fees, often called eco fees. This decision affects customers across Canada who unknowingly paid these extra charges on certain items. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Eco Fees?
Eco fees are additional charges meant to cover the recycling and responsible disposal of products like batteries, electronic items, and light bulbs. The lawsuit alleged that Dollarama didn’t make these fees clear to customers, resulting in shoppers paying more than the advertised shelf price.
Who Is Eligible for a Refund?
If you purchased eligible products from Dollarama during these timeframes, you may be entitled to compensation:
- Quebec shoppers: Purchases made between December 11, 2019, and July 4, 2023.
- Shoppers in other parts of Canada: Purchases made between May 29, 2021, and July 4, 2023.
Products covered by the settlement include batteries, electronics, toys containing batteries, and light bulbs.
How Much Can You Get?
Eligible consumers can receive between $3 and $10 through an Interac e-transfer. The amount will depend on the total number of claims. If individual payouts fall below $3, the settlement funds will instead go to court-approved charities. To qualify, you must file a claim by February 14, 2025.
How to Claim Your Refund
Submitting a claim is simple and doesn’t require a receipt. All you need to do is fill out an online form on the settlement website, reglementecofraisdollarama.com. You’ll need to confirm the city and province where you made the purchase and provide a valid email address for the e-transfer.
Dollarama’s Response
Dollarama has denied any wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement to avoid prolonged litigation. The company also promised to improve its pricing practices, ensuring customers are informed about eco fees in the future.
Why This Matters
This case highlights the importance of transparency in retail pricing and ensures that companies remain accountable. If you’ve shopped at Dollarama, take a moment to check if you’re eligible for a refund. Don’t miss out—submit your claim before the deadline!
