Kroger CEO Blames Credit Card Fees and Fuel Costs for Price Hikes

- Grocery prices have gone up, and Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen says rising operating costs are to blame. - McMullen blamed rising credit card swipe fees and fuel costs for increased prices. - McMullen said Kroger wouldn't raise its prices if their merger with rival Albertsons goes through. Soaring credit card swipe fees and fuel prices are to blame for today's higher grocery prices, Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen said in court on Wednesday. Kroger and its rival Albertsons are currently …