Resellers Face September Deadline in HDD Suspension Assembly Lawsuit

Businesses that purchased hard disk drives or computers for resale between 2003 and 2016 now face a critical decision regarding a class action antitrust lawsuit. Plaintiffs allege that major manufacturers conspired to inflate prices of suspension assemblies, a vital component hidden within the storage devices found in millions of enterprise and consumer systems.

The litigation targets a group of manufacturers, including TDK Corporation and NHK Spring Co., accused of fixing prices for suspension assemblies. According to the court-certified complaint, these artificial costs were passed down the supply chain, ultimately impacting resellers who dealt in hard disk drives, laptops, and servers. While the court has certified the class, it has not yet reached a verdict on the merits of the allegations.

Resellers who purchased these products in specific states must decide whether to remain in the class or pursue independent legal action. By remaining in the class, members preserve their right to potential future settlements but forfeit the ability to sue the defendants individually over these specific claims. Those choosing to opt-out must file their request by September 2, 2026. Opting out ensures the right to maintain a separate lawsuit, though it disqualifies the entity from receiving any payouts derived from this collective action. No trial date has been set, and no funds are currently available for distribution.