Update (June 19, 2026): Starbucks has disputed the characterization of its cost disclosures in this case. The company told vegconomist it made no admission
Good news is that they already have dropped the up charge entirely and an increasing number of chains are doing so around the world. From the article:
Notably, all three chains dropped their surcharges before the class action was authorized. Starbucks removed the upcharge in November 2024; Tim Hortons followed in January 2025, and Second Cup in February 2025. The lawsuit, filed by Montreal law firm LPC Avocats, seeks retroactive accountability for charges collected during those periods.
Good news is that they already have dropped the up charge entirely and an increasing number of chains are doing so around the world. From the article: