Baron & Budd Obtains Record Settlement in Restaurant Revitalization Fraud Lawsuit Against CoreLife Eatery, LLC
WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, the national law firm Baron & Budd announced a record $7.8 million settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit brought under the False Claims Act against CoreLife Eatery, LLC for defrauding the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). This is the largest RRF settlement under the False Claims Act to date.
The RRF was established in 2021 as part of the American Rescue Plan Act to provide financial assistance to restaurants and other food-service businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, businesses that owned or operated more than 20 locations as of March 13, 2020 were not eligible for the funding.
As part of the settlement, CoreLife acknowledged that, on March 13, 2020, CoreLife and its affiliates owned and operated 29 restaurants across five different states. Nevertheless, CoreLife applied for and received an RRF grant for nearly $4 million after certifying that it did not own or operate more than 20 locations.
'The RRF was designed to funnel aid to small restaurant businesses that otherwise could not survive the COVID-19 pandemic,' said Baron & Budd attorney Noah Rich. 'When large restaurant chains and other ineligible applicants received this assistance instead, they kept small businesses from receiving vital relief.'
The federal government has made the prosecution of these cases a priority and needs whistleblowers to come forward with information about RRF fraud. This type of fraud harmed small business owners struggling to keep their businesses operational during the pandemic. Often, whistleblower suits are the only way in which this fraud is uncovered, investigated, and punished.
Whistleblowers who have information about RRF fraud may bring lawsuits under the False Claims Act (FCA). Whistleblowers can receive a monetary award for a successful enforcement action. Under the FCA whistleblower program, whistleblowers are afforded certain confidentiality and anti-retaliation protections. It is important to seek the counsel of a whistleblower attorney in these cases.
For more information, visit www.becomeawhistleblower.com.
About Baron & Budd, P.C.
Baron & Budd, P.C. is among the largest and most accomplished plaintiffs' law firms in the country. With more than 40 years of experience, Baron & Budd has the expertise and resources to handle complex litigation throughout the United States. As a law firm that takes pride in remaining at the forefront of litigation, Baron & Budd has spearheaded many significant cases for hundreds of public entities and tens of thousands of individuals. Since the firm was founded in 1977, Baron & Budd has achieved substantial national acclaim for its work on cutting-edge litigation, trying hundreds of cases to verdict and settling tens of thousands of cases in areas of litigation as diverse and significant as dangerous and highly addictive pharmaceuticals, defective medical devices, asbestos and mesothelioma, wildfires, environmental contamination, fraudulent banking practices, e-cigarettes, motor vehicles, federal whistleblower cases, and other consumer fraud issues.
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Portable Oxygen Concentrator Market is expected to double, reaching USD 4.5 billion by 2034
Portable Oxygenerator Market Outlook 2025–2034 Luton, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom, June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Market Overview The global portable oxygenerator market is undergoing a period of sustained growth, with an estimated valuation of USD 2.1 billion in 2024. This market is forecasted to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 8.0%, reaching USD 4.5 billion by 2034. The primary drivers of this growth include the increasing prevalence of chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD and asthma, an aging global population, and a rising inclination toward home-based healthcare solutions. Furthermore, technological progress and enhanced accessibility to oxygen therapy devices are transforming the dynamics of the market. Download PDF Brochure: Market Drivers A critical factor contributing to market expansion is the rising burden of respiratory ailments globally. As awareness around chronic lung conditions increases, so does the demand for dependable oxygen therapy equipment. This is especially pronounced among the elderly, who form a significant portion of the patient base requiring portable oxygen delivery systems. Another major driver is the technological evolution of oxygen concentrators. Modern portable oxygenerators are now smaller, lighter, and equipped with longer-lasting batteries, improving their usability for both domestic and mobile purposes. The integration of smart technologies, such as real-time oxygen level monitoring and remote data transmission, has enhanced the effectiveness and attractiveness of these devices. Additionally, healthcare reforms and infrastructure development, particularly in developing countries, are fostering broader adoption of oxygen therapy products. Governments and private players are making significant investments in health systems to accommodate the rising need for respiratory care, thereby opening new market opportunities. Market Restraints and Challenges Despite the optimistic outlook, several obstacles continue to hinder market acceleration. One of the foremost concerns is the high cost of advanced portable oxygenerators, which can deter uptake, especially in low-income or developing regions. While innovations are enhancing functionality, they also often raise the cost of manufacturing and final pricing. Regulatory complexities further impact the industry. Gaining approvals from regulatory bodies can be a time-consuming and expensive process. Moreover, companies face challenges related to distribution logistics, particularly in emerging markets where infrastructure and healthcare access remain limited. Global supply chain disruptions, amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealed vulnerabilities in the procurement and distribution of essential components. Such uncertainties could result in delayed production timelines, reduced inventory levels, and higher operational risks. Segmentation Analysis By Product Type: Continuous Flow vs. Pulse Dose Oxygenerators Portable oxygenerators are broadly classified into continuous flow and pulse dose types. Continuous flow models, which deliver oxygen at a constant rate, dominate the market and are preferred in home care and clinical settings where steady oxygen supply is essential. On the other hand, pulse dose models, which dispense oxygen in bursts synchronized with the user's inhalation, are gaining popularity among mobile users and active individuals due to their energy efficiency and portability. By Technology: Molecular Sieves vs. Membrane Separation In terms of technology, molecular sieve systems lead the market. They are known for delivering high-purity oxygen and are widely adopted in hospital and home care applications. Conversely, membrane separation systems are less efficient but more cost-effective, making them suitable for budget-conscious or recreational applications. Continuous research and development in improving the efficiency and affordability of molecular sieves signal strong growth prospects for this segment. By Application: Medical, Industrial, and Recreational The medical segment remains the dominant application category, accounting for the highest revenue share. This is driven by the clinical need for continuous oxygen therapy among patients with chronic respiratory disorders. However, recreational and industrial applications are emerging steadily. Recreational use, especially in sports and high-altitude activities, is on the rise. In the industrial sector, portable oxygen systems are utilized in manufacturing, welding, and chemical processing, where reliable oxygen delivery in remote environments is crucial. By End-User: Hospitals, Home Care, Emergency Services, and Sports & Fitness Hospitals form the largest user segment, owing to their critical need for oxygen during surgeries, intensive care, and emergency treatments. The home care segment is also expanding rapidly due to the aging population and a societal shift toward home-based healthcare. Meanwhile, emergency services and sports & fitness represent emerging niches. Emergency responders are increasingly adopting portable systems for their ability to provide immediate oxygen in critical scenarios. The sports and fitness segment is attracting attention as athletes and health-conscious individuals explore oxygen therapy for enhanced recovery and performance. 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This is attributed to the presence of advanced healthcare infrastructure, high prevalence of respiratory conditions, and proactive government policies promoting home healthcare. Technological innovation and consumer awareness are also more mature in this region. Europe Europe holds a significant share of approximately 30%, fueled by increasing awareness around oxygen therapy, a rising elderly population, and favorable reimbursement policies. The European market is expected to grow at a CAGR of about 5% through 2034. Asia-Pacific The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid market expansion, with a projected CAGR of 7%. Key drivers include rising air pollution, increasing healthcare investments, and a large patient population base. Countries like China, India, and Japan are driving demand through both public and private sector healthcare initiatives. 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Recent Market Developments Philips Respironics launched the SimplyGo Mini+ in January 2023, featuring longer battery life and improved mobility, addressing user demand for highly portable medical-grade solutions. In March 2023, Inogen, Inc. acquired a technology firm specializing in oxygen delivery innovation, aiming to boost its technological edge and expand its product line. ResMed, in July 2023, announced its expansion into the Asia-Pacific market, targeting India and Southeast Asia to capitalize on increasing demand and investment in healthcare. AirSep Corporation introduced a new portable oxygen concentrator in September 2023 with reduced power consumption and enhanced oxygen purity, appealing to cost-conscious and eco-friendly buyers. Chart Industries entered a strategic partnership in India in October 2023 to expand its distribution network and cater to rising local demand. 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OPINION - The City wanted Labour to succeed, but the goodwill has been rapidly squandered
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What you need to know about UK's private stock market Pisces
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) confirmed on Tuesday in a joint statement with economic secretary to the Treasury, Emma Reynolds, that its Private Intermittent Securities and Capital Exchange System (Pisces) will launch later this year. Pisces is a new trading platform where shares in private companies can be traded. The FCA said will "open the door to more opportunities for investors, facilitating their access to growth companies." Private companies will be able tap into a broader range of investors and asset managers with exits offered for shareholders to sell up. Companies can set the floor and ceiling of share prices, and have a say over who can buy their shares. Simon Walls, executive director of markets at the FCA, said: "This bold design rebalances risk, but it is bold risk-taking that made the UK the leading financial centre it is today. The new platforms will give investors greater access and confidence to invest in exciting new companies, while early backers and employees can sell up and invest again." Read more: Pound dips following weak UK jobs report The government is currently looking to encourage more people to buy UK shares and attract more investment from overseas. Pisces is the latest step in the FCA's wide-ranging reforms to boost growth and competitiveness, and unlock capital investment and liquidity. It comes as a number of companies have recently moved their main listing to the US or been taken over. The platform could also act as a stepping stone for private companies towards an initial public offering (IPO). 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AIM is already seen as a stepping stone for London's main stock market — and the government are hoping this journey can start earlier, with Pisces as a pathway for AIM. The proposal outlines plans to make Pisces share transactions exempt from stamp duty, and stamp duty reserve tax, which puts it in line with similar exemptions for AIM and the Aquis growth market. "Removing stamp duty on all UK shares would be a major step forward as the current rules make the UK less competitive than many other locations such as the US and some European markets. Stamp duty is a cost for investors and can add up for those who place a lot of trades," Coatsworth said. He added: 'Pisces is not going to change the world, but it should be a welcome addition to the UK's investment ecosystem.'Sign in to access your portfolio
