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Kroger Pricing Standoff with Red Bull Signals Private Label Shift

Published 27 September 2026 · WBI Industry News
Kroger Pricing Standoff with Red Bull Signals Private Label Shift
Image: BevNET

Grocery retailer Kroger is taking a firm stance on pricing against major CPG brands like Red Bull, while expanding its private label presence.

According to a report by BevNET, grocery retailer Kroger is taking a strict stance on pricing, leading to high-profile standoffs with major consumer packaged goods brands including Red Bull and Boar's Head. Kroger's growing push into private label offerings could shift how beverage brands negotiate contract terms with major retail channels. Additionally, beverage brand HopLark has recently filed for bankruptcy. The publication also noted a recent industry meetup hosted in San Francisco.

Key facts

  • Kroger is engaged in pricing standoffs with Red Bull and Boar's Head.
  • Kroger is increasingly expanding its private label portfolio.
  • HopLark has recently filed for bankruptcy.
  • BevNET hosted an industry meetup in San Francisco.

Why it matters

Kroger's stricter pricing policies and growing focus on private labels could alter retail negotiations and margin expectations for beverage manufacturers.

Retail Pricing Private Label Energy Drinks Bankruptcy

Sources
  • BevNET — 2026-09-25: “Taste Radio: Red Bull vs. Kroger Is Bigger Than Energy Drinks”

This article was prepared by WBI.org from the sources listed above with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a WBI editor before publication. Information is attributed to its original sources.

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