Class action lawsuit against Vodafone price increase: process is gaining momentum

Class action lawsuit against Vodafone price increase: process is gaining momentum

The class action lawsuit against price increases at Vodafone is gaining momentum, as the Federal Office of Justice announced. Those affected now have the opportunity to enter the lawsuit register on the authority's website and to take part in the lawsuit brought by the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv). The proceedings at the Higher Regional Court (OLG) Hamm are one of the first cases that refer to a new federal law and give consumers more power. If they win, Vodafone customers could receive financial compensation straight away without having to go back to court.

Vodafone increased landline prices by five euros in 2023, which affected around ten million customers. This increase affected Internet over television cable and telephone lines (VDSL) and not Internet over fiber optic (FTTH) or mobile tariffs. The company said it made the price increase due to increased costs, such as energy and materials. Nevertheless, consumer advocates considered the unilateral price increase for ongoing contractual relationships without customer negotiations to be invalid. Vodafone, on the other hand, emphasized that the legal requirements for the changes were anchored in the General Terms and Conditions (GTC).

Service providers usually introduce price increases through new contracts with new customers. Price adjustments occasionally occur for existing customers, which are closely monitored by consumer advocates. The ongoing proceedings against Vodafone are seen as a signal to the economy. Customers have the opportunity to check on the consumer advice center's website whether they can take part in the class action lawsuit.