Costco Canada has a proposed class-action lawsuit that claims it overcharged shoppers

If you made purchases on Costco Canada’s website, you might be eligible to join a class-action lawsuit alleging unfair pricing practices.

In a proposed lawsuit brought forward by Quebec-based law firm Perrier Attorneys, it is claimed that the wholesale retailer charged more for items online than in-store—a practice known as “double ticketing,” which is prohibited under Section 54 of the Competition Act.

The case, led by Ibrahim El Bechara, highlights several instances of alleged price discrepancies from purchases made in 2024.

A 17-page court document written in French details that El Bechara bought a blender online on July 10 for $84.99, only to discover the same blender was available in-store for $79.99.

In the fall (Oct. 15), he purchased wool-blend socks online, which were $4 cheaper in-store.

The following month, on Nov. 5, El Bechara ordered a vacuum sealer and food storage containers online, later finding they were $9 and $10 cheaper in-store, respectively.

In addition, the lawsuit says that even though the website showed shipping and handling charges as $0, the higher online prices were misleading. The lawsuit also argues that Costco failed to clearly inform customers these items were available in-store at lower prices, creating the impression that they were only sold online.

According to Canada.ca, double ticketing is a criminal offence, punishable by fines of up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to one year. These laws are intended to protect consumers from unclear or misleading pricing.

Costco has not come forward with a statement following these allegations.

Canadians who believe they have been affected can register online to stay updated and submit receipts as evidence. Registration is not mandatory but helps lawyers build a stronger case by connecting with impacted customers.

To register, you’ll need to provide your contact information and details of your Costco purchase, including receipts, which can be uploaded as supporting evidence.