7-Eleven stores across British Columbia have been charging environmental fees on plastic containers in error, including Whistler’s own convenience store.

This news comes on the heels of learning a week ago that Shell Canada gas stations around the province have also been inaccurately charging customers recycling fees on milk bottles.

“I found out on Tuesday (Oct. 30) that we have been charging environmental fees on milk containers of about three cents,” said Bhupinder Sandhu, Whistler 7-Eleven Store Manager. “It was mistake from head office in updating their software. I haven’t heard of any customers coming in for refunds just yet, but we will honour the environmental fee refund to those who have receipts and offer a free coffee.”

7-Eleven Canada responded to the fee errors, admitting it learned about the mistake, and was accidentally charging customers in stores around the province. Laurie Smith, marketing manager, 7-Eleven Canada, said milk items were the only ones charged the incorrect fee.

“The eco fee varies depending on the item purchased,” said Smith, marketing manager, 7-Eleven Canada “This was a technical error. 7-Eleven took steps to correct the error immediately and the issue was corrected as of 12:01 a.m. on Thursday (Nov. )1. We are still looking into details so we cannot give an exact number as to how many stores have been affected.”

Consumer Protection B.C. was quick to warn the public on Tuesday after a delayed response to accusations made against Shell Canada two weeks ago.