Sony Music has filed a lawsuit in the United States against The Kroger Co, accusing the retail group’s brands of using its recordings in social media posts without licences.
The suit cites 392 unauthorised uses of Sony Music recordings in posts by Kroger-owned brands and by influencers working on campaigns for them.
The Kroger Co is the parent company of retailers and brands including Ralphs, King Soopers, Murray’s Cheese, Home Chef and Mariano’s.
Sony Music’s filing notes that The Kroger Co previously signed licensing deals with Sony Music that included social media usage. One example cited is a seven-week campaign in 2020 that used a song by The Lovin’ Spoonful.
“Having previously negotiated and paid for such licenses, the Kroger Parties cannot claim ignorance of the licensing requirement,” the lawsuit states.
The case follows other legal disputes between music rightsholders and brands. A separate Sony Music lawsuit against DSW Shoe Warehouse appears to have been settled days before the Kroger action was launched.
