JEFF HAYNES
The store some call “Whole Paycheck” for its high pricing of organic grocery products has been ordered to pay $500,000 to the City of New York. This summer, reports alleged the store overcharged some New York customers for produce and pre-packaged fresh products. As part of the settlement, Whole Foods will also be required to conduct extra training and in-store audits along with the fine. “We agreed to $500,000 in order to put this issue behind us so that we can continue to focus our attention on providing our New York City customers with the highest level of quality and service,” the company said in a grudging statement. New York City’s Department of Consumer Affairs said, “Whether it’s a bodega in the Bronx or a national grocery store in Manhattan, we believe every business needs to treat its customers fairly and, with this agreement, we hope Whole Foods will deliver on its promise to its customers to correct their mistakes.”