The retailer will pay restitution and penalties after allegations of misleading delivery drivers about earnings through its Spark platform.
Walmart has agreed to a $13.3 million settlement with Texas over allegations it misled delivery drivers about pay via its Spark Driver platform. The agreement includes $6.69 million in restitution for affected drivers and an equal amount in penalties and fees to the state.
The settlement resolves claims dating back to 2021 that Walmart violated Texas consumer protection laws by misrepresenting tips, base pay, and incentive bonuses. Investigators alleged drivers were sometimes promised full tips that were later split.
Walmart denied wrongdoing, stating the agreement does not constitute an admission of liability. The Spark Driver platform connects independent contractors with Walmart delivery opportunities.