Menards has reached a $4.25 million settlement with multiple states, including Minnesota, over allegations of deceptive marketing in its “11% Rebate Program” and pandemic-era price gouging.
Minnesota will receive $632,167 from the settlement, which also involves Wisconsin, Arizona, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio, and South Dakota.
Attorneys general claimed Menards misled customers by advertising “11% off everything” while requiring rebate forms for future in-store credit, and obscuring that Rebates International is part of Menard Inc.
The company also faced accusations of raising prices on items like rubbing alcohol and dish soap during COVID-19, CBS News has reported.
As part of the settlement, Menards agreed to improve disclosure of rebate limitations, clarify its relationship with Rebates International, and refrain from price gouging during economic disruptions.
