Yes, it sounds strange, and who afterall would think that industrial conspiracy would involve lawnmowers?
But, that is the case.
Two class action lawsuits in Canada have been brought against various lawn mower and small engine manufacturers.
Many manufacturers/ suppliers involved
It is alleged that the defendants participated in an unlawful conspiracy to raise, fix, maintain or stabilize the price of lawn mowers in Canada, lessen unduly competition in the production, manufacture, sale and/or supply of lawn mowers and lawn mower engines, and/or to conduct business contrary to the Competition Act and the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act.
$4.5 million dollar settlement
The class-action suits were brought on behalf of all those who between January 1 1994, and December 31, 2012, purchased a push or riding mower for personal use having a gasoline engine of less than 30 horsepower.
Settlements have been reaced with MTD, Briggs & Stratton, Electrolux, John Deere, Husqvarna, Kohler, and Toro totaling 4.5 million dollars
MTD (including Sears Ltd) has agreed to pay $300,000.00 and provided evidence and co-operation to the plaintiffs in pursuing their claims against the remaining non-settling defendants.
Honda has agreed to a $700,000 payment with hearings set in Ontario and Quebec to approve the Honda settlement on October 26 and 27 respectively.
No money will be distributed to plaintiffs until the case against all defendants has been resolved
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