Consumer Advocates Report 200,000 Join Prime Video Class Action Lawsuit
Consumer advocates have reported that more than 200,000 individuals have joined a class action lawsuit against Amazon’s Prime Video service. This significant mobilization is spearheaded by the Saxony Consumer Advice Centre. The lawsuit concerns the recent introduction of advertisements on Prime Video, which advocates believe constitutes a hidden price increase.
Record Participation in Class Action Lawsuit
As of now, a total of 201,090 people have registered for the lawsuit, marking a historic first since the Consumer Rights Enforcement Act was enacted in October 2023. This is the largest class action of its kind, and registration remains open for others wishing to participate.
Consumer advocates are aiming to raise awareness through this interim report as they await a hearing date at the Bavarian Higher Regional Court.
Reasons Behind the Lawsuit
The Saxony Consumer Advice Centre initiated this class action in February 2024 following the introduction of advertisements on Prime Video. The streaming service now defaults to displaying ad breaks in its films and series. To avoid these interruptions, users must pay an additional fee of 3 euros monthly.
Advocates argue that this change is unlawful. They assert that Amazon did not seek the consent of its customers before altering the terms of service. Michael Hummel, a representative of the Saxony Consumer Advice Centre, emphasized that contractual terms should not be changed unilaterally without user approval.
Other Consumer Protection Actions Against Amazon
In addition to the Prime Video suit, the Saxony Consumer Advice Centre is pursuing a litigation-financed disgorgement action against Amazon. This seeks to recover 1.8 billion euros, representing the remaining advertising profits after refunds to class action participants. The Federal Republic of Germany is expected to receive these funds.
Another lawsuit from the North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Advice Centre focuses on price hikes that occurred in 2022. Advocates contend that Amazon increased its Prime subscription fees without obtaining explicit consent from its users, a practice they argue is unacceptable.
- Class Action Participants: Over 200,000 individuals
- Initiating Body: Saxony Consumer Advice Centre
- Default Advertising Fee: 3 euros per month
- Year Lawsuit Initiated: 2024
- Bavarian Higher Regional Court: Awaiting hearing date
- Potential Claims Amount: 1.8 billion euros
This ongoing situation underscores the critical role of consumer advocacy in holding major corporations accountable for their practices. El-Balad will continue to monitor developments in this case.
