Kroger names Mark Ibbotson Executive Vice President and Chief Store Operations Officer

The Department of Justice has expanded its investigation into rising beef prices to include eight major grocery chains: Costco, Kroger, Publix, Walmart, Albertsons, Aldi, Amazon, and Ahold Delhaize USA. The probe follows a 10% increase in beef prices over the past year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The DOJ expanded its beef-price antitrust probe to include retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Amazon. The investigation, initially focused on meatpackers, now covers eight retailers. Walmart, despite lowering beef prices, is a target. The probe follows President Trump's accusations of price manipulation. Beef demand is rising while cattle herds are at a 75-year low, potentially keeping prices elevated.

The DOJ is investigating eight major U.S. retailers, including Walmart and Amazon, over rising beef prices, which have increased around 10% in the past year. The probe follows a broader investigation into meatpackers and aims to address beef affordability. According to the BLS, beef prices rose 9.4% in the year ending July, driven by drought, high costs, and herd liquidation. The DOJ has not specified the exact reasons for the retailer investigation.

The DOJ expanded its beef price investigation to include major retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Amazon, alongside Kroger, Publix, Albertsons, Aldi, and Ahold Delhaize. The probe follows an earlier antitrust inquiry into the 'Big Four' meatpackers, which control over 85% of the U.S. beef processing market. The DOJ is examining potential antitrust violations and high beef prices, with retailers receiving letters regarding recent price increases.

The FTC blocked a $25 billion Kroger-Albertsons merger, citing reduced competition and higher prices. The companies argued the deal would help them compete with Walmart, Costco, and Amazon. The decision highlights tensions between consumer protection, corporate scale, and job security in the grocery industry.

Kroger has agreed to a $17 million settlement for a class-action lawsuit over alleged misleading prescription drug pricing. Eligible customers who used insurance to pay for prescriptions at Kroger pharmacies during a specific period can file a claim by Dec. 21, 2026, to receive a share. The settlement is subject to final approval.