Kroger To Make $1.4 Billion Payment To Settle Opioid Crisis Case

On Friday, Kroger announced its commitment to resolving a significant portion of the legal disputes arising from the opioid epidemic.

The well-known supermarket and pharmacy chain has specified that these funds will be given to states and local governments. The grocery chain will also disburse the $36 million to Native American tribes to assist in funding treatment and various initiatives to tackle the crisis. Additionally, $177 million will go to cover attorney fees and legal costs.

“This is an important milestone in the company’s efforts to resolve the pending opioid litigation and support abatement efforts,” Kroger said. “Kroger has long served as a leader in combating opioid abuse and remains committed to patient safety.”

Numerous retailers across the nation have made similar payments to resolve lawsuits stemming from their involvement in the distribution of opioids. In May, Walgreens reached an agreement to pay San Francisco $230 million to settle a case related to opioid distribution.

Walmart reached a $168 million settlement with Texas prosecutors who had alleged that the retailer contributed to the rise of the opioid crisis. Prior to this, Walmart had already agreed to a $3.1 billion settlement in 2022. Pharmacy giants CVS and Walgreens also resolved opioid-related lawsuits by collectively agreeing to pay over $10 billion last year.