An Ontario class action case alleging unlawful price-fixing against manufacturers of parking heaters used by trucks and commercial vehicles has been certified to proceed to trial.

A class action was initiated against two firms that the action alleges participated in an unlawful conspiracy to fix, raise, maintain or stabilize the price of parking heaters in Canada. Parking heaters in this context include related kits, accessories and parts. The action has been certified on behalf of all Canadian residents (excluding Quebec) who purchased a parking heater, or purchased, leased or sub-leased a vehicle containing a heater between September 13, 2001 and December 31, 2012. A separate lawsuit was commenced in Quebec on behalf of Quebec residents.
Parking heaters are used in commercial vehicles to warm the engine and cabin in lieu of idling the vehicle.

A settlement has been reached with an individual defendant, who was a former executive at one of the firms. He has agreed to co-operate and provide evidence in respect of the alleged conspiracy, in return for a release of claims against him in the class action, subject to court approval.

For more detailed information about the case, including the certification orders, the settlement agreement, the court-approved notices, and an explanation of the rights of class members at this juncture of the case, visit www.foremancompany.com/parking-heaters-price-fixing.