AG Ellison announced a $4.25 million multistate settlement with Menard Inc. d/b/a Menards, a home improvement retail chain, which resolves claims that the company deceptively marketed its merchandise credit check program (commonly known as the “Menards 11% Rebate Program”) and engaged in price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"It’s hard for Minnesotans to afford their lives when businesses are trying to deceive them. An ad that says ‘11% OFF EVERYTHING’ clearly implies that you can buy goods at an 11% discount, not that you can participate in a limited rebate program or get in-store credit for future purchases. Today’s settlement holds Menards accountable for how they advertised their rebate program in the past and ensures that program will be more honest in the future. Furthermore, it is disappointing that Menards took advantage of the fear and uncertainty during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to jack up prices on consumers, so we are holding them accountable for that as well.” – AG Ellison