Canadians could receive money from a proposed settlement in a class-action lawsuit filed against Keurig.
On Oct. 27, Eqitas, the class claims administrator, issued a notice informing Canadians who may be eligible to receive money from the class-action lawsuit, which alleges that Keurig misrepresented the recyclability of K-Cup single-serve coffee pods (“Pods”).
The class action was brought forward by plaintiff Nancy Buis and certified by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice on Oct. 22.
The allegations
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According to a court document, Keurig is facing allegations that it sold Pods and brewing machines in Canada from June 8, 2016, that contained “misleading representations as to the recyclability of the Pods, contrary to the Competition Act and the common law.”
Keurig, however, has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that its conduct was lawful. The Court has not decided on who is right; however, both the plaintiff and defendant have reached a proposed settlement “to avoid the uncertainties, risks, and costs of further litigation.”
How much could you receive?
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To be eligible, you must have purchased Pods and/or Brewers made in Canada from June 8, 2016, until the date of the Settlement Approval Order. If you’re an eligible class member, you could receive part of the settlement.
Keurig has agreed to a settlement of $1.85 million. After administration expenses, class counsel fees and disbursements, the remaining balance will be distributed to eligible class members.
According to the lawsuit, you could receive the following:
- For K-Cup Pods — if you don’t have proof of purchase, you could receive up to $7 per claim; however, if you have proof of purchase for at least one Pod, you could receive 50 cents for every 10 Pods purchased or up to $50 per claim.
- For K-Cup Brewers — if you have proof of purchase of at least one Brewer or at least one Pod, you could receive a maximum of $25 per claim.
Class members can submit claims for both Pods and Brewers.
What’s next?
For now, the settlement still has to be approved by the Court, and the hearing will be held in Ottawa on Dec. 8. Once approved, a claim form will be released to the public, and all claim forms must be submitted within 180 days of the settlement agreement. The deadline to opt out is Nov. 28.
To learn more, visit the Keurig Recyclable K-Cup Pods Settlement website.
