Grocery chain Maxi, owned by Loblaw, is facing consumer backlash after some customers noticed automatic charitable donations being added to their bills without clear consent.
The controversy centres on an initiative supporting the President’s Choice Children’s Charity. At certain Maxi locations in Quebec, a $2 donation was being added to customer bills by default at self-checkout, with only a small prompt offering the chance to opt out.
Several shoppers took to social media to express frustration, arguing the practice was misleading and that donations should always require explicit consent.
Critics say the donation prompt is too easy to miss, especially when customers are moving quickly.
Loblaw responded by stating that the donation option is part of a limited-time fundraising campaign and that customers are always given the ability to remove the charge before finalising their transaction.
However, consumer advocates have raised concerns over transparency, with some suggesting the method could erode trust.
The criticism comes amid broader public scrutiny of Loblaw and other major grocers over rising food prices, record profits, and accusations of corporate greed.
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