Wal-Mart to Settle Pricing Complaint

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has agreed to comply with Wisconsin’s fair pricing law to settle a complaint the state filed last year alleging the retail giant was selling some items below cost to drive out competitors.

The Bentonville, Ark.-based company did not admit any wrongdoing and will not pay a penalty. But if the company violates the agreement in the next year, it could pay double and triple the regular fines.

Wal-Mart also will make a $15,000 donation to a high school consumer education contest--the cost of the state’s investigation.

The company operates 74 Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club stores in Wisconsin, employing nearly 21,000 people.

Wal-Mart shares fell $1.40 to close at $52.20 on the NYSE.