The Superior Court of Quebec has authorized a $2.5 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit against Dollarama Inc. regarding its application of environmental handling fees, commonly referred to as eco fees.
Eco fees are added by retailers to products like electronics, batteries, light bulbs, and toys to cover recycling costs. The lawsuit, led by a plaintiff represented by Quebec law firm LPC Avocats, claimed that Dollarama failed to clearly display eco fee pricing and sometimes charged fees higher than the amount shown or permitted by law.
As part of the settlement, Dollarama denies any wrongdoing but has agreed to compensate affected customers. Eligible shoppers may receive Interac e-transfers ranging from $3 to $10.
Customers who bought items with eco fees at Dollarama between May 29, 2021, and July 4, 2023, can claim compensation. Additionally, Quebec residents who purchased eco fee-related products from December 11, 2019, to July 4, 2023, are also eligible for the payout.
The settlement aims to address concerns over transparency and compliance in Dollarama’s pricing practices.