But in 2021, things began to change. The complaint alleges that a Kroger executive told Drinkwater that the company was not happy with the festival and wanted to make changes. Drinkwater claims he was pushed out of planning the 2021 event, and that Kroger took over all aspects of the festival, including the website and social media channels. The event was moved to a smaller venue in Denver, and the third day of the festival was canceled, according to the complaint.
For the 2022 festival, Kroger allegedly cut Jewel out of planning and the lineup, and even tried to remove her name from the festival’s branding. Drinkwater was left out of planning meetings, and by the end of the event, the lawsuit claims, the festival had lost $1.5 million. The complaint also alleges that Kroger cut Drinkwater out of his share of the profits, and that he was left with $2.5 million in debt from the festival.
In late 2022, Drinkwater and Jewel filed suit against Kroger in California, alleging breach of contract, fraud, and unfair competition. The case was moved to Ohio, where it is currently pending.
As for the future of Wellness Your Way, Drinkwater told Fortune he is working to revive the festival. “I’m not giving up on this,” he said. “I believe in it too much.”
Meanwhile, Jewel continues to make music and advocate for mental health and wellness. “I believe that wellness comes from taking care of our emotional fitness,” she says in a recent interview. “It’s about being empathetic and kind to ourselves and others.”
As for Kroger, the company has not publicly commented on the lawsuit. But the grocery giant is facing challenges on multiple fronts, from the failed merger with Albertsons to the sudden resignation of its longtime CEO. The outcome of the lawsuit could have lasting implications for the company and its reputation as a leader in health and wellness.
Despite the legal battle, Jewel is continuing to focus on her music and wellness ventures. She recently released a new single and is working on a new album. While the future of the Wellness Your Way festival remains uncertain, Jewel’s dedication to mental health advocacy and wellness is unwavering.
As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the legal dispute between Drinkwater, Jewel, and Kroger will be resolved. The festival’s future hangs in the balance, but one thing is clear: the impact of Jewel’s contributions to the event cannot be understated.
Pengacara McMullen tidak menanggapi permintaan komentar dari Fortune.
Pameran kesehatan Kroger berikutnya, sekarang dikenal sebagai Festival Kesehatan Kroger, dijadwalkan berlangsung pada akhir September, setelah festival-festival sukses pada tahun 2023 dan 2024. Acara tersebut akan mencakup “musik live di beberapa panggung,” menurut Kroger.
Tetapi Jewel tidak akan tampil di salah satunya.
Cerita ini awalnya ditampilkan di Fortune.com