If you purchased canned tuna products from Walmart in the United States between June 2011 and December 2016, you could be eligible for a payment due to a recent legal settlement.
This stems from a lawsuit involving price-fixing allegations against two major companies, StarKist and Lion Capital, which sold the products during that period.
The Price-Fixing Scandal
The lawsuit accused StarKist and Lion Capital of conspiring to inflate the prices of canned tuna, affecting consumers across the country. This illegal activity led to artificially high prices, which customers unwittingly paid for their tuna products.
As a result of this lawsuit, the companies have agreed to settle for a substantial amount without admitting any wrongdoing.
Who Can Benefit?
The settlement is designed to compensate those who purchased canned tuna products during the affected period. Specifically, it includes anyone who bought these products from Walmart between June 2011 and December 2016.
However, the settlement isn’t limited to Walmart shoppers. If you purchased canned tuna from other retailers, such as Sam’s Club, Costco, or US Foods, you may also be eligible for compensation.
Settlement Details
StarKist and Lion Capital have agreed to a $3.6 million settlement to resolve these claims. StarKist will pay the bulk of this amount, while Lion Capital will contribute $270,000.
Despite the significant settlement, both companies have not admitted to any illegal activities. Nevertheless, their decision to settle suggests a desire to avoid further legal battles and to address consumer grievances.
Breakdown of the Settlement:
| Company | Settlement Amount |
|---|---|
| StarKist | Majority of $3.6 million |
| Lion Capital | $270,000 |
How to Claim Your Payment
If you purchased the affected products during the specified timeframe, you might be wondering how to claim your portion of the settlement. Here’s what you need to know:
- Notification: Consumers eligible for a payment should have received a notification via mail. This notice would provide details on how to claim your share of the settlement.
- Eligibility: To be eligible, you must have purchased canned tuna products from Walmart, Sam’s Club, Costco, or US Foods between June 2011 and December 2016. Keep any purchase records if possible, as they could be helpful in substantiating your claim.
- Claim Process: The claim process typically involves filling out a form, either online or by mail. The details of how to submit your claim will be provided in the notification you received.
Important Note:
Make sure to follow the instructions on the notification closely and submit your claim within any deadlines provided. This will ensure that you don’t miss out on your portion of the settlement.
StarKist’s Statement
In response to the settlement, the CEO of StarKist emphasized the company’s commitment to social responsibility. The CEO expressed satisfaction with resolving the claims “on fair and reasonable terms” with their largest customer, Walmart.
While the company did not admit to any wrongdoing, this settlement reflects a broader effort to address the concerns of affected consumers.
DOJ Investigation
The price-fixing allegations were not taken lightly. The Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice led a thorough investigation starting in 2015.
This investigation uncovered evidence of price-fixing and monopolistic practices, which ultimately led to the lawsuit and the resulting settlement. The DOJ’s involvement underscores the severity of the allegations and the importance of maintaining free competition in the market.
What’s Next?
If you were affected by the price-fixing scandal, now is the time to act. Check your mail for any notifications about the settlement, and ensure you follow the instructions to claim your payment.
This settlement represents a victory for consumers, holding corporations accountable for unethical practices and ensuring some compensation for those who were overcharged.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the settlement payment?
Anyone who purchased canned tuna products from Walmart, Sam’s Club, Costco, or US Foods between June 2011 and December 2016.
How much is the settlement worth?
The total settlement is $3.6 million, with StarKist paying the majority.
Did StarKist admit to any wrongdoing?
No, StarKist and Lion Capital did not admit to any illegal activities but agreed to the settlement.
How will I know if I qualify for a payment?
You should receive a notification via mail if you are eligible.
What should I do if I qualify?
Follow the instructions on the notification to submit your claim before the deadline.
