Woman files lawsuit claiming Starbucks overfills cold drinks with ice
reporting from CHICAGO — A federal lawsuit claims Starbucks regularly overfills its cold drinks with ice instead of using the advertised amount of coffee or other liquid in its plastic cups.
The lawsuit was filed last week in Chicago on behalf of Stacy Pincus, a local woman who accuses Starbucks of misleading consumers. The lawsuit alleges that an iced beverage advertised at 24 ounces contains about 14 ounces of fluid, and that ice isn’t a fluid or beverage.
“A Starbucks customer who orders and pays for a cold drink receives much less than advertised — often nearly half as many fluid ounces,†the lawsuit states, adding that the practice is “by design and corporate practice and procedure.â€
Join the conversation on Facebook >>
Starbucks said the lawsuit is without merit.
“Our customers understand and expect that ice is an essential component of any ‘iced’ beverage,†Starbucks spokesperson Jaime Riley said Monday. “If a customer is not satisfied with their beverage preparation, we will gladly remake it.â€
The lawsuit seeks class-action status, which could allow it to cover customers for the last decade. Among other things, the lawsuit seeks damages, restitution and attorneys’ fees.
MORE BUSINESS NEWS
Halliburton and Baker Hughes abandon their $34-billion merger
Australian steps forward as bitcoin founder: ‘I didn’t take the decision lightly’
Gannett asks Tribune Publishing shareholders to withhold support for board nominees
Inside the business of entertainment
The Wide Shot brings you news, analysis and insights on everything from streaming wars to production — and what it all means for the future.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
