Although Chick-fil-A has not admitted to any wrongdoing and denies allegations, the company has agreed to settle a class action lawsuit that was initially filed in October 2023. In preparation for the settlement disbursement, the Georgia-based fast-food giant has established a cash fund in the amount of $1.45 million and a gift card fund totaling $2.95 million. The customers that were directly impacted by the company’s alleged actions must file a claim by February 15. The accepted claimants may receive up to $29.25 in either cash or a gift card.
The origin of the lawsuit derives from the company’s business practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, Chick-fil-A enhanced or developed delivery or pick-up options similar to services offered by so many other fast-food establishments and restaurants, incorporating its online ordering feature onto its app and website. As a bonus, Chick-fil-A advertised free or low-cost delivery for its customers. The low-cost delivery charge ranged from $2.99 to $3.99. During a time that was fiscally straining for many families and individuals, it was seemingly admirable for Chick-fil-A to provide a perk to its customers. However, the lawsuit accused the company of incorporating hidden delivery charges in addition to its lower delivery charge.
Customers complained that these hidden fees and additional charges increased the overall online bill by 25-30%. The increase was comparable to a $5 or $6 upcharge for a 30-piece chicken nugget order placed in person in the restaurant. According to the lawsuit, the price of Chick-fil-A’s food orders proved more costly than what was advertised by the company. Customers argued that the fast-food company saw the incredible surge in online delivery orders as an opportunity to capitalize on apparent false advertisements that deceived customers. Individuals living in California, Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, and New York who placed online orders through the Chick-fil-A app or website between November 1, 2019, and April 30, 2021, may be eligible to receive a portion of the settlement.