Starbucks faces a class action lawsuit over a surcharge for lactose-free milk
Source: The DairyNews
In Colorado Springs, a class action lawsuit has been initiated against Starbucks by Lora Premo, a lactose-intolerant consumer, challenging the additional charges imposed for non-dairy milk alternatives. Filed in the United States District Court, District of Colorado, the lawsuit claims that these surcharges violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, as they discriminate against those who are lactose intolerant.
The complaint highlights that Starbucks levies an extra 50 to 70 cents for alternatives such as oat, almond, coconut, and soy milk. Premo's legal team argues that the cost of these non-dairy alternatives does not justify such surcharges compared to regular milk. The lawsuit is now awaiting class action certification, which, if approved, would allow others similarly affected to join the claim.
Internationally, Starbucks offers these non-dairy options at no additional cost in locations like Japan and the United Kingdom, a practice that is pointed out in the lawsuit as a contrast to the charges in the U.S. The filing also references other major coffee chains like Caribou Coffee and Blue Bottle Coffee, which have recently eliminated their non-dairy surcharges.
The legal action seeks compensatory damages of at least $5 million for Premo and other potential class members, emphasizing the widespread impact of the surcharge on thousands of consumers. Keith Gibson Law, P.C., the firm representing Premo, has experience with similar cases, having filed lawsuits against both Starbucks and Dunkin’ in California.
As of now, Starbucks has not issued a comment on the matter.
Internationally, Starbucks offers these non-dairy options at no additional cost in locations like Japan and the United Kingdom, a practice that is pointed out in the lawsuit as a contrast to the charges in the U.S. The filing also references other major coffee chains like Caribou Coffee and Blue Bottle Coffee, which have recently eliminated their non-dairy surcharges.
The legal action seeks compensatory damages of at least $5 million for Premo and other potential class members, emphasizing the widespread impact of the surcharge on thousands of consumers. Keith Gibson Law, P.C., the firm representing Premo, has experience with similar cases, having filed lawsuits against both Starbucks and Dunkin’ in California.
As of now, Starbucks has not issued a comment on the matter.
