Kroger Settles Nationwide Opioid Claims, Faces Sales Disappointment

Kroger has agreed to pay $1.2 billion to settle the majority of claims that it contributed to the opioid epidemic through lax oversight of its pill sales. The settlement, which covers U.S. states, subdivisions, and Native American tribes, is not an admission of wrongdoing or liability. Kroger will pay $1.2 billion to states and subdivisions and $36 million to Native American tribes over 11 years. The company expects a $1.4 billion charge related to the settlements and associated legal fees. Numerous drug companies and wholesalers have faced lawsuits and settlements related to the opioid crisis.