Michigan part of settlement with Menards over price gouging, rebates
Michigan is receiving over $637,000 as part of a $4.25 million settlement with Menards for misleading rebate programs and pandemic price gouging.Summary
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced a settlement with Menards regarding deceptive practices during the COVID-19 pandemic and its “11% Rebate Program.” The state will receive over $637,000 as part of a $4.25 million multistate settlement. Investigations revealed Menards sold essential products like bleach and face masks at inflated prices and misled customers about its rebate program, implying cash payments instead of store credit.
Under the agreement, Menards must clearly disclose rebate terms, refrain from misrepresenting store credit as discounts, allow at least a year for rebate claims, and improve its online tracking system. The company is also prohibited from price gouging during future emergencies.
Additionally, Nessel announced settlements with Hyundai and Kia over vehicle theft risks due to a lack of engine immobilizer technology, and with Google over anticompetitive practices in the Google Play Store, potentially providing further compensation to Michigan consumers.
(Source：Theoaklandpress)