Costco Wholesale is confronting a proposed nationwide class action lawsuit demanding refunds for U.S. customers due to higher prices the company charged prior to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate import tariffs imposed by President Trump.
The lawsuit, filed by a Costco shopper in federal court in Illinois, seeks a declaration that the company must return to customers any refunds it receives for tariffs it paid under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
“This lawsuit seeks to prevent Costco, the third-largest retailer in the world, from double recovery,” the complaint said. “Costco has made no commitment to return any portion of anticipated tariff refunds to the consumers who bore those costs.”
Last week, Costco CEO Ron Vachris informed analysts that it remains uncertain whether and when businesses will recover the IEEPA tariffs they paid earlier. He added that if Costco receives any refunds, the company intends to pass these savings on to customers through lower prices and enhanced value.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
