Allegations of Unfair Pricing Spark Legal Action
Shoppers who made purchases on Costco Canada’s website may be eligible to join a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging deceptive pricing practices.
The Quebec-based law firm Perrier Attorneys filed the lawsuit, accusing Costco of charging higher prices online than in-store—a practice referred to as “double ticketing.” This practice, prohibited under Section 54 of Canada’s Competition Act, carries criminal penalties, including fines of up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to one year.
The case, led by Ibrahim El Bechara, focuses on several price discrepancies in 2024 purchases. Court documents reveal instances where El Bechara paid more online for products that were cheaper in Costco stores. For example:
- July 10: El Bechara purchased a blender online for $84.99, only to find it priced at $79.99 in-store.
- October 15: He ordered wool-blend socks online that were $4 cheaper in-store.
- November 5: He bought a vacuum sealer and food storage containers online but later discovered in-store prices were $9 and $10 lower, respectively.
The lawsuit also alleges that Costco’s website misled customers by showing $0 shipping and handling fees while failing to disclose the availability of lower in-store prices. This, the plaintiffs claim, created the false impression that certain items were exclusively available online.
Costco has not yet issued a statement regarding these allegations.
Canadians who believe they were overcharged can register to participate in the lawsuit. Registration is not mandatory but allows affected individuals to submit receipts as evidence, strengthening the case.
To register, participants must provide contact details and upload supporting documents, including purchase receipts. Updates on the case will also be shared with registered users.