Walmart shoppers could be in line for cash payments of up to $500 following the retail giant’s agreement to settle a class-action lawsuit for $45 million. The lawsuit, centered on allegations of deceptive pricing practices, accused Walmart of using three specific unfair tactics that resulted in customers being overcharged for certain products.
Among the accusations against Walmart were claims of falsely inflating product weight, misrepresenting the weight of bagged produce, and charging higher prices for clearance products sold by weight. At the heart of the matter was the contention that shoppers believed they were paying lower prices at checkout for items such as poultry, seafood, and bagged citrus fruits.
Walmart shoppers could claim up to $500 from the class-action settlement (Credits: ABC TV)
Although Walmart has not admitted any wrongdoing, the company settled in November 2023 to put the matter to rest. Under the terms of the agreement, eligible customers who made purchases of weighted goods or bagged citrus at Walmart stores in the United States and Puerto Rico between Oct. 19, 2018, and Jan. 19, 2024, stand to receive compensation.
The deadline for submitting a compensation claim is June 5, 2024.
The amount that claimants may receive varies based on factors such as the total cost of goods purchased and whether they possess receipts or other documentation supporting their claims.
Those able to provide documentation may be entitled to 2 percent of the total cost of their purchases, up to a maximum of $500. Compensation ranges from $25 to $10 for those without documentation, depending on the quantity of goods purchased.
However, once all claims have been processed, the actual payout to each claimant may differ. Payments will be adjusted proportionally if the total amount claimed exceeds $45 million. Conversely, if the total claimed amount falls short of $45 million, the claims administrator will adjust accordingly.
Walmart Store (Credits: The Independent)
Shoppers also have the option to opt out of the settlement, which would allow them to pursue legal action against Walmart independently. Requests for exclusion must be submitted in writing to Walmart by May 22, 2024.
Additionally, shoppers can lodge objections to the settlement or any part thereof, including the class counsel’s request for attorney’s fees. Written objections must be postmarked by May 22, 2024.
A final approval hearing is scheduled for June 12, 2024, during which the court will decide on the settlement. The court’s decision will bind shoppers who choose not to opt out of the settlement.
