Kroger Forecasts Sales Slump as Inflation Drains Consumer Spending
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Kroger predicts sales will dip in the second half of 2023 due to continued inflation and economic challenges for consumers.
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The company reported a $180 million quarterly loss, largely due to a $1.4 billion opioid settlement charge.
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Inflation ticked higher in July to 8.5% annually, remaining elevated despite Fed interest rate hikes.
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Consumers have started reducing spending at grocery and retail stores due to high prices.
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Households may deplete excess pandemic savings this quarter and are increasingly relying on credit cards, with debt topping $1 trillion in June.