Costco Canada faces proposed class-action lawsuit following claims of overcharging online shoppers

[@purple7vi0let]

It’s clearly stated on the Costco website that prices are higher online vs. at their warehouses.

[@dimpleb2891]

Yes, but there is a law in canada that does not permit it.

[@thecurioustempest6178]

Their grocery items are higher online than in person, even if using pick up at the warehouse. It’s why I don’t use it for Costco

[@purple7vi0let]

@@dimpleb2891 well I’m glad someone’s launched a lawsuit then. They’re a huge conglomerate so I’m sure they can afford to recompense customers. Me being one of them.

[@aavvcc]

That doesn't make them exempt from the law

[@SZiani]

Just because you state something doesn’t make it legal. Otherwise, I will just state that I will be committing fraud in order to avoid the fraud accusations. Law doesn’t work like that.

[@blistery1875]

What a total waste of money for that law firm, Costco does an exemplary job in their messaging about the price differential of certain products. Costco literally has the highest trust when compared to the other big retailers in Canada and it’s well deserved. If I was heading Costco Canada, I would seriously consider pulling out of Quebec if this lawsuit shows legs. “No more $1.50 hotdog and pop for you”

[@darpompie4354]

The point is that it is against the law to do so. It doesn't matter if they are warning you they are breaking the law. I am not allowed to speed even if I put up big signs on the road saying I am going to be speeding. Every other major store has the same prices online and in store. If you want to add shipping costs, you do it at the end in the cart, or you break out the price on the item showing the cost of the item and the shipping charge. They will lose this case, as again, its against the law regardless if they warn you or not.

[@blistery1875]

@ How can you compare a highway traffic act violation to this? With that so-called comparison you definitely show a lack of any legal understanding and based on this you personally do not have the authority to state Costco is breaking the law. I know I don’t have the understanding of the legalities especially being Quebec based. Costco on-line and the ware house are separate business entities. This is well covered, and understood by anyone who takes the time to read fine print. Sure they are both owned and operated by the same parent company but that doesn’t really matter. they have the right to establish their own respective pricing models. What is your take on “in-store” specials that has been a common practice by retailers for as long as I can remember? Is that illegal? From your take, it sounds like it is. Costco is the bright star of retailers in Canada, they pay their workers a living wage with benefits and provide phenomenal value to their customers and have built trust and respect. Sure they have their eccentricities which I would literally not accept from any other retailer, however I look,at the big-picture when I choose to be a member. I stand by my comment, if this lawsuit shows promise in Quebec for the proponents, I would definitely suggest them leaving Quebec. It’s a small market for them and this type of headache is not worth it.

[@darpompie4354]

@@blistery1875 Sorry to inform you that I am well versed in law... It appears that you believe that laws are based on emotion and how good of a person/company you are. That is not the case. Laws that businesses must follow are exactly like a traffic violation. The judge does not care if you feed the homeless, save baby kittens and are mother Teressa. They will tell you that's very nice of you. Here is a video showing you speeding, your fine is $200. Please pay on the way out. The judge's job is to enforce and uphold the laws, whether you or even the judge himself agrees with them. In saying that. At no time did I ever say Costco is a bad company and that you shouldn't shop there anymore. I too love Costco and it's my favourite place to shop. That doesn't mean they didn't break the law. Without looking it up, there must be a reason why this law is in place. Maybe you have a problem with the law itself. If so, there are channels in place to get laws changed. But until then, you must follow the law. If Costco feels it's not worth doing what every other retailer in Quebec does, then they will leave. No different than some companies not feeling its worth all the French/English laws, so they don't do business in Quebec. As a province, you are allowed to make up the rules as you please and businesses have a choice to do business there or not. Maybe you should petition your premier and state because Costco provides phenomenal value they don't need to follow our rules. I don't know what to tell you. You can be mad at me all you want. If they broke the law, they are going to be held accountable. Again, it doesn't mean they are a bad company.

[@RogerDiotte]

LOL @ the HotDOG....I just joined the other day and lol had the 1.50 deal and was happy!

[@jibcparis3768]

This is the happiest day for the law firm, eventually be a sad day for consumers. How much will you think you will get from the price differential lawsuit? The facebook lawsuit got us $36.29. Costco could up their membership for $5 in near future, your hot dog is yo to $2 bucks, chicken is up to $10 and the most important having costco adjusting their return policy. This is a slap on the wrist for costco, as a consumer your benefit could be chopped. Think about it, have you benefit as a Costco member. Have you experience return an item and checkout speed difference vs other companies?

[@jacquiemarshall6843]

Costco clearly notes the difference in pricing on the website.

[@tomp8871]

You're dealing with Canadians here.

[@gregorymckenna6609]

Costcos price difference between online and in store is fair. When you order online they have to pay someone to pick the item, pack the item, transport the item etc. they also make it clear the item may be cheaper in the store. You are paying for convenience.

[@chrislim7976]

Business must be slow at Quebec law firms.

[@tillyburton5402]

THAT PROVINCE CAN'T READ ENGLISH I GUESS

[@worstusername]

LOL. Costco literally tells you on the website the prices are higher online vs. the warehouse. You have to pay to shop in the warehouse .. you don't online. You're gonna lose, pal.

[@VincentP-f6z]

✅

[@news2hedz227]

I love when people comment but don't even watch the video.

[@aavvcc]

Doesn't matter, they are breaking the law

[@SZiani]

Just because your write something on your website does not make it legal.

[@tonggao-q7v]

​@@aavvccThe price contains shipping.

[@TheRednell]

Well, if he does win then Costco will just add shipping and handling like every other online shopping retailer. Even I understood that the price online was higher because shipping and handling is included in the online price. This is such a frivolous lawsuit and a waste of our legal resources.

[@purple7vi0let]

@@TheRednell the majority of corporations nowadays like Walmart Canada actually ship the items for free if you purchase more than a certain amount which right now is set at $35. It’s super easy to spend $35 on anything so that automatically would make the shipping free.

[@northof49]

@@purple7vi0let Not all.

[@lindsayseal8504]

@@purple7vi0let and they're able to do that because their wages are so low the employees are eligible for income assistance. At least Costco pays a living wage plus benefits.

[@almontoya5703]

That's crazy! Many people already knew prices are lower in stores vs. online. I even knew that cause it was stated on their website.

[@JohnBlain]

This is among the worst lawsuits. I hope they pay Costco's costs to defend against this frivolous garbage.

[@andg5194]

this guy is clueless. every product, underneath every price, has disclaimer, stating price shown is product price + shipping cost. how much more "proper notice" does it need to be?

[@Kr0nicDragon]

Fyi, there is NO SUCH THING AS “FREE” SHIPPING, they add the shipping cost to the item to cover it, it’s just a legal loophole that lets them get away with saying “free shipping”. You’re GOING to be paying for shipping one way or another. In this case, Costco states that the shipping cost is included in the online price. I feel like this lawsuit isn’t going to go anywhere other then down the toilet. BaWOOSH

[@jeanniep8816]

They are higher online because it includes costs of delivery. It’s clearly stated. I support Costco.

[@rafial81]

It's called shipping 😂

[@DonnaLMunro]

The consumer is advised they can get a cheaper price. There is a cost to posting items online and there's a cost for advertising. That needs to be recouped by the sale. Most stores or sellers for stores tell you whether in person or online leads to a better price. It's not just Costco. Prices in house change too. If an item does not sell, it may get marked down till the price warrants pickup. I love Costco. Make sure there is a decent reason for the lawsuit. Don't hassle a good thing.

[@katherinelangford981]

"Shipping and handling fees are included in the price, a client would be leader to believe oh well there's no shipping fees". No I'd be lead to believe that the fees are INCLUDED in the price, and thus that price is likely higher than me buying in-store where it doesn't have to be shipped to me, and thus cost less. It clearly states it on the sites the costs can be higher on the site than in store because of this. Its why a washing machine is $150 more online. They ship, they pick up the old, and they install. It's all in the price online. That's not available in-store, thus it's less if you pick up, dispose of the old, and handle the install yourself.

[@michellejames9858]

In addition to the website clearly stating that delivery is available at a higher price, a reasonable person would not expect to pay the same amount for a delivered item as they would pay in store. Delivery is not free. What a ridiculous waste of resources. All this is going to do is increase prices by causing Costco to have to pay for legal fees.

[@bluethunder1951]

To buy online you must be a member and with the notification that the price is higher the members accept that, I’m not going to lose my membership by signing on to this idiot lawsuit.

[@celestetamarit2619]

If you buy five items that have been raised by $10 each, you mean that it actually cost $50 to in hidden cost for delivery? That’s pretty darn steep.

[@MrMakiacat]

Go to the store then if the convenience of home delivery is too darn steep. Everyone has a choice before they click the order button.

[@celestetamarit2619]

@ not everyone can go to the store. There are some people who have no family, but have just had surgery and cannot walk properly or there are so many circumstances where someone may not be able to go to the store so please don’t be narrow minded.

[@jeanniep8816]

There are many other stores people can order from. We have enough trouble in Quebec without some wannabe wanting to ruin it for all of us.

[@DoloresKRULICKI-yt4wv]

They tell you that right as soon as you go on delivery they tell you some items are cheaper from warehouse then store so why can't people read before they buy .

[@julejustjule]

They've been doing this since at least 2017 and most things clearly state item may be cheaper in wharehouse.

[@chomperthefirst533]

These lawyers are wasting their time.

[@Richard-nb4iv]

It's called "Cash and Carry" this guy is going to drive up prices.

[@thomast.9191]

Costco online purchasing is one of the best in the business and in doesn’t charge for delivery for even buying a huge item like a gazebo. It’s already factored into the price of the item. Please don’t make them start charging for delivery. I don’t live near a Costco.

[@jaydurocher1882]

Walmart does the same thing..

[@l.c.3150]

And loblaws

[@helenrancourt5900]

When you make an online purchase from Costco it tells you that the product may be cheaper in the store. People should learn to read.

[@chrisly1]

membership prices about to double!

[@jeanniep8816]

Membership this year has slightly been raised. No issue as Costco had not raised it for years. It has not doubled!

[@ravic5068]

Not only Costco every one is doing and collecting high prices in Canada. All stores- we have to teach them by law. Raise your voices on all stores in Canada

[@suemorgan3873]

Because they charge shipping on each item and it’s stated there as well. Just go to the store and not order. It’s simple

[@bigmike6461]

Walmart does the same, but in reverse. They charge more for in person,then whats posted online.

[@gfutube1]

I’ve ordered online and frequent Costco stores. It’s indispensable here in Nova Scotia and I don’t care about the price differences. You can’t get the selection and prices at our local stores.

[@adriandelaat2905]

I order a lot on line from Costco, and the disclaimer says it may charge more, and some times the item is not available in store. No law suit

[@aavvcc]

But still illegal

[@northof49]

@@aavvcc Not from what i read/saw

[@adriandelaat2905]

They are over charging because item has to be picked and shipped

[@Elizabeth-vw1vb]

Costco states clearly that delivery items are more expensive.....it's a built-in delivery charge. This is not rocket science. Get a life.

[@NotAsianButFlip]

I mean i noticed that the prices online are about 3-4 dollars more expensive than in the warehouse…if you analyze that it doesnt make sense because in person shopping should be more expensive because of stocking but it’s the opposite for costco…

[@hiro0500]

I hope he knows the shipping is included.

[@KenC-um4sj]

This type of behaviour is why lawyers have the reputation that they have earned. Hopefully they lose this frivolous claim and Costco is awarded costs (pun intended). What would the claimants be awarded anyway…..$20.00 ? Wow. Chasing ambulance business must be really slow!

[@ltop9641]

This Quebec man, obviously, is in need of a big amount of money, but here he will hit the rock.

[@lorriepierson8203]

The same happens at many stores who have an online presence and a physical store. What about the rest?

[@shariclarke9794]

Prices on line include shipping. Duh

[@clawtoris]

They r just gonna raise to store price to match the website. More expensive 😢

[@davids2009]

people that deliver goods to homes are volunteer workers, correct?

[@JoeB2825]

But if Costco argument is that it charges higher prices because of shipping then they could just charge a standard shipping cost rather than charging higher prices for individual items

[@kurts3779]

Greedy lawyers. All stores do thisand eveyone knows it.

[@linato1855]

Is this why the prices increased already in their stores? I only needed three items yesterday, egg prices went up again. Covering lawyer fees…

[@AmberAnderson-i5h]

I went to Walmart with a friend to buy a fan and the fan was only being sold for $25.00, seems like a great deal. There was also no warranty of any kind on the fan. When we got to the cash register to buy it, the taxes equalled out to be the same price as the sale price of the fan and there was a $10 fee on it that had nothing describing what tax it was, it was just there. Complete insanity and I went to customer service. At first they wouldn't explain anything and then i threatened to go public about them putting extra hidden fees that doubled and tripled the price on their in-store products to scam customers out of their money. The manager instantly came out of nowhere and lowered the price and taxes to what it was meant to be. When you understand economics and you start verbally educating these people, it changes quickly.

[@missboopadoop]

Youre dumb, Amber

[@stephaniepajares4602]

Its true i noticed the same, but did not know it was illegal. When i asked staff in costco they said its based on distance.

[@nashguindi]

Costco literally will go out of its way to respect the law...this is just a mad bored lawyer cash grab.

[@victorpong2669]

Anyone notice when the reporter said “‘misleading” it was showing wines on screen…..since when do we have that in Canada? I’m in BC so unless it’s available in another province…..

[@hugsandcurses]

Quebec

[@ZirvmoFringe]

They are sometimes higher online. And the website says so clearly. Nothing to look at here.

[@pjfan173]

Food cost more from a restaurant when you have it delivered to your home. Wonder if these geniuses can figure out why this is 😂

[@breathewithinyoga]

I had no idea this was illegal! I was aware it was always more expensive online versus the warehouse.

[@gaetanomagnifico1836]

Remember unlimited data for cellular service, now its unlimited data up to a certain level of data. The more people shop online the less brick and mortar stores needed and online shopping becomes more expensive. All be design.

[@northof49]

Shyster lawyers taking this lawsuit, there must be fewer accidents this winter.

[@lawrencerobles6207]

What a money grab. Some People just want to sue for anything.

[@Anna_YYZ]

Exactly…

[@1topbaron559]

Someone breaks the law and you are ripped off. You don't want compensation??

[@purple7vi0let]

@@lawrencerobles6207 that’s funny Lawrence so you’re for rooting for the big corporations rather than for the everyday hard-working people that are getting ripped off? ….

[@northof49]

@@1topbaron559 They are not breaking the law

[@northof49]

@@purple7vi0let You are not getting ripped off! But it is sad that you think that it is ok to rip off a business. No wonder Canada is in the shape it is in.

[@Belvie27]

They don’t charge shipping online.

[@Nguyen-d3f]

How come no one sue Canadiantire ??? They mark up 900% and sale down 70% still more expensive than other store???

[@mindymindus35]

Its also instacart they chrage for items at 2 to 3 dollars more sometime up to five dollars.

[@christinem9960]

That's so wrong over charging ,people have limited money and now costco is robbing us, that is so bad.

[@boswagg2]

Sounds like some lazy guy trolling trying to get something for nothing more Drake antics

[@philmed7675]

Do people think that their purchases just fall from the sky? Why is it a challenge to understand delivery people don't work for free and who pays the expense of the commercial vehicle, insurance and fuel? Unless you specifically pay for a yearly flat rate for shipping, then you have no standing in regards to the price difference.

[@JohnFreedman0]

Did it through Uber eats with costco once. Charged me $495. Receipt said $340. Charged things too like $60 for beef but package stocker was just over $30

[@YassineELAZMI]

The overcharge is so ridiculous even loblaws becomes cheaper than buying online from costco

[@mkrcivoj]

Can we countersue the people trying to pull a fast one on Costco? They make it perfectly clear on the webstore and printed material.

[@rayanlee5987]

Have to insert shipping cost somewhere.

[@Rythsi300]

Thanks money grabbing lawyers - now Costco is going to have to charge shipping i bet.

[@lindsayseal8504]

This law firm is diversifying it's practice. It's a lot easier than chasing ambulances.

[@roseredanddiamondblu]

Literally half the restaurants on uber eats do this

[@kevinsu4421]

100% of restaurants. Uber eats charges 30% commissions. Can surely say that is more than their own profit

[@alexanderrykhlinski5700]

This is so dumb. Costco website says The same item may be available at a lower price at your local warehouse.

[@creativesuit1930]

I thought the online prices included shipping 🤔

[@Nguyen-d3f]

Can someone sue the city why property go up 8% every year and wage are the same??

[@MAGIeYUU]

They mentionned it, so its not illegal in any ways. Plus items are often différents from the website to the actual warehouse. They do that to pay for shipping. I still hate it but I understand why.

[@LaydeeLyrix]

That’s why I don’t shop online from there, exec tho they gave a coupon it don’t offset prices being $5 more per item.

[@brucekatkin5310]

So Costco will match the price in store and add delivery fees just like other retailers such as Walmart.

[@ndychung007]

Now Costco will raise the in store prices to match the higher online store prices. Ruining for everyone one.

[@Trina_White]

omg they post there is a difference, who would take this case?

[@majie1018]

Well, it’s cost Costco more to service for anyone who wants to be a member. So they raised the membership fees. And yet you still pay more for some items there than at retail stores. That’s wholesale rip off…

[@jeanniep8816]

Thank goodness you have other stores to shop at…

[@janem3575]

i'm not a costco member and I know the pricies are different because of shipping and handling

[@minkyful]

Leave Costco alone 😒

[@rubybaby5811]

Who really gives a sh__t? The website says this. Dude, there are a lot of more legitimate things you can sue a company for. Stop wasting everybody's time.

[@jodsterf]

with all the real crimes no one is doing anything about? geez

[@pjfan173]

Costco has extra cost of pulling the orders and shipping them out

[@taradawn9091]

I don't get it. People want lower prices and the minute someone stands up to the prices, they all complain. We should all join him in court.The shipping costs are starting to sound like excuses. First, the prices are going up because of shipping. Now they want to charge us more online because of shipping, then they want to charge us shipping. Really, shipping products is costing us all that money, well i guess the best way to save money is to not buy anything thats been shipped.

[@hpppp850]

Good Job!

[@jprivet5601]

The ones in the store you drive to get them and the ones online are shipped to your door. End of story.

[@EdwardCheung1]

His lawyer is wasting his time. I hope he’s working on retainer.

[@g.m3399]

Maybe they are updating their systems and it hasn’t hit their system live

[@truecanadian1616]

Have we become the United States already ??? Only 5% of the world's population but 17% of the world's lawyers.

[@Xdiary628Randomnessss]

Walmart is doing this too. Taking money out of my account.

[@cherrypoutines6269]

do you even need membership to buy costco online? is the guy want to get costco warehouse price without buying membership and shipping prices

[@Exiled.New.Yorker]

Taking out Loblaw's only real competition is not a great idea right now.

[@jeanniep8816]

Customer service is just outstanding at Costco. So much so that they have had to remove oil change service because people abused policy claiming they were not satisfied with their oil change to get reimbursed for service - customer is always 1st!

[@zildjian0606]

I knew this but didn't know it was not allowed.

[@jessica-otterrows3284]

Costco adds shipping cost (Very low cost) to their online orders 😒

[@northof49]

This is ridiculous! I hope Costco wins. Stated on their site and in emails. And you need to be a member to purchase on line too right?

[@juvwon]

They should also tagg Uber Eats as well.

[@Autventure]

It's called "shipping"... Online Costco products include shipping cost.

[@ipoka21]

So you all think it's fair for people who doesn't have a local Costco to have to pay more for the exact same product? On top of having a minimum spend to get free shipping

[@EyreEver]

It literally says that this is the case on the website and the app... there is no lawsuit here.

[@VincentP-f6z]

Am ungrateful import looking for a pay out 😂

[@krisk1547]

Yea their online prices are way higher. Same goes for any fast food app.