A consumer advocacy group, the Center for Responsible Food Business (CRFB), reported that one-third of the 101 Kroger stores inspected in Ohio were overcharging customers at checkout. The findings were based on 389 inspections conducted from 2022 through mid-2026, which documented 644 pricing errors across nine Ohio territories.
According to the report, 36 of the 101 locations had at least one instance of overcharging. The inspectors noted that errors favored Kroger approximately three times more often than customers, with overcharges averaging nearly 20% above the advertised shelf price. For example, a customer in Butler County was charged $6.19 for an 18-count carton of Kroger eggs, which were displayed at $3.99, representing a 55% increase. This discrepancy was attributed to a digital coupon that did not apply correctly.
Another instance involved fresh raspberries that were advertised for $1.47 but rang up at $3.49, a $2.02 increase, also linked to a failed digital deal. While there were 474 recorded overcharges, there were also 170 undercharges, although these instances were less common.
Consumer Reports previously indicated that Kroger was overcharging customers by an average of 18% across 26 stores in Ohio, suggesting that the issue persists. CRFB president Taylor Warren stated that customers should not have to photograph price tags or challenge receipts to ensure fair pricing.
Kroger responded to the report, emphasizing that their associates work diligently to provide accurate pricing and value. The company stated that the report presents selective data and does not reflect the overall customer experience in their stores. It is important to note that the pricing inconsistencies were identified only in Ohio and do not necessarily indicate a nationwide problem.