In a dramatic twist for U.K. consumers, a group representing motorists has secured a £38 million settlement in a high-profile lawsuit against international car shipping giants. The legal battle, spearheaded by law firm Scott + Scott UK LLP, centers on allegations that five major shipping companies formed an illegal cartel to fix prices, costing U.K. car buyers millions of pounds.
£24.5 Million Settlement with Norwegian Firm and £13.25 Million with Japanese Carrier
The settlement, which is poised to become a historic milestone, includes a £24.5 million deal with Norway’s Wallenius Wilhelmsen and its subsidiary, Eukor, alongside an additional £13.25 million with the Japanese shipping giant “K” Line. This brings the total settlements in the class action to a remarkable £38 million. However, this deal is still pending approval by the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT), with a hearing scheduled for Thursday.
The lawsuit, driven by consumer advocate Mark McLaren, represents U.K. buyers who purchased approximately 17 million vehicles between 2006 and 2015. The claimants allege that the illegal cartel between car shipping companies inflated the prices of their vehicles, causing significant financial harm to consumers.
A “Very Positive Development” for Claimants
Belinda Hollway, partner at Scott + Scott UK LLP, emphasized the importance of the settlements, calling them a “very positive development” for the class members. The deal, she said, reflects the growing momentum of the case ahead of the trial against remaining defendants, which is set to take place in January 2024.
