Tuna Direct Purchasers $38.65M Antitrust Settlement

If you purchased packaged tuna products directly from Bumble Bee, Chicken of the Sea, StarKist, or Thai Union Group between June 1, 2011, and July 31, 2015, you may be eligible to claim compensation from a class action settlement.

StarKist has agreed to pay $38,650,000 to settle a class action lawsuit for allegedly conspiring to fix, raise, and maintain the prices of packaged tuna products, leading to higher costs for direct purchasers.

Who are the class members?

You are a class member if:

• You or your company purchased packaged tuna products directly from any of the defendants: Bumble Bee, Chicken of the Sea, StarKist, or Thai Union Group
• The purchases were made between June 1, 2011, and July 31, 2015
• The products were shelf-stable tuna sold for human consumption, packaged in cans or pouches

Class members include retailers, wholesalers, and distributors who bought directly from the defendants.

How much can class members get?

Class members with valid claims will receive a combination of cash payments and StarKist products.

The total settlement fund is $38,650,000, with an additional $26,100,000 in StarKist products. The compensation amount depends on the number of valid claims and the volume of commerce represented.

• Cash Payment: Class members will receive a pro rata share of the settlement fund. This means the distribution will be proportional to each class member's purchase volume.
• StarKist Products: Class members can order from StarKist's national price list, with a three-year redemption period.

What proof is needed to file a claim?

Claimants need to provide proof of their direct purchases. This can include receipts, invoices, or other payment documents.

How to file a claim

To claim an award, class members can file a claim online using their Unique ID and PIN.

Alternatively, they can submit a claim form by mail to the Claims Administrator at:

Tuna Direct Purchaser Case

c/o JND Legal Administration

PO Box 91457

Seattle, WA 98111

Claim instructions

1. Visit the claim website and log in using your Unique ID and PIN.
2. Review the commerce values attributed to your purchases.
3. If you disagree with the values, provide supporting documentation.
4. Submit the claim form online or by mail before the deadline.

Important dates

• Deadline to File a Claim: Postmarked by October 18, 2024
• Fairness Hearing: November 22, 2024

When is the Tuna Direct Purchasers Settlement payout date?

The court will hold a Fairness Hearing on November 22, 2024, to decide whether to approve the settlement. If approved, payments will be distributed to eligible class members.

Why was there a class action settlement?

The class action lawsuit was filed because the defendants allegedly conspired to fix prices for packaged tuna products, leading to higher costs for direct purchasers. The settlement was reached to avoid the uncertainties and risks of further litigation.