Montreal law firm files class action against coffee chains over non-dairy charges

Lawsuit Filed Against Coffee Chains Over Non-Dairy Milk Surcharge

A Montreal law firm has initiated a class-action lawsuit against major coffee chains, accusing them of unfairly charging customers extra for non-dairy milk substitutes in lattes.

The lawsuit targets well-known chains, alleging they have profited from this practice for years. Class-action lawyer Joey Zukran highlighted the widespread impact, stating, “It’s 44 percent of the population who are lactose intolerant. Add to that another 5 percent who are vegan, and you’re looking at 50 percent of the population being affected.”

Claims of Consumer Exploitation

The lawsuit, which has not yet been proven in court, argues that the additional charge for milk substitutes constitutes an abusive fee under Quebec’s Consumer Protection Act. Zukran described the surcharge as “highway robbery,” emphasizing its impact on vulnerable consumers.

Agro researcher Sylvain Charlebois noted that the cost of dairy alternatives has significantly decreased over the years due to increased production and demand, often making them cheaper than regular cow’s milk.

Policy Changes by Coffee Chains

Some coffee chains have recently altered their policies. Last fall, one chain announced it would no longer charge extra for non-dairy options, emphasizing inclusivity in customizing beverages. Another followed suit, eliminating the surcharge as of January 2, stating the decision was made well before the lawsuit was filed.

Compensation Demanded

Despite these policy changes, Zukran believes customers should be compensated for past charges, estimating the total amount collected by the chains to be in the tens of millions.