Quebec court approves $2.5M settlement in Dollarama eco fees class action

The Superior Court of Quebec has approved a $2.5 million settlement in a class action targeting Dollarama Inc.’s use of eco fees.

Environmental handling fees, sometimes called eco fees, are charged by retailers like Dollarama on items like electronics, light bulbs, batteries and toys in order to help with the cost of recycling.

A plaintiff represented by Quebec law firm LPC Avocats alleged Dollarama did not properly display the price of products subject to eco fees and charged a total price or eco fee higher than displayed for these products or allowed by law.

As part of the approved settlement, Dollarama does not have to admit wrongdoing but will fund Interac e-transfers between $3 and $10 for affected shoppers.

Customers who purchased products with eco fees from the retailer between May 29, 2021 and July 4, 2023 are eligible for the e-transfer.

Those who bought products subject to the fees in Quebec between Dec. 11, 2019 and July 4, 2023 are also eligible.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 11, 2024.

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Tara Deschamps, The Canadian Press