This Massachusetts-Based Grocery Chain Rivals Aldi With Its Affordable Prices

An entrepreneurial effort that started in Massachusetts in 1908 has solidified into a lasting legacy for quality, affordable groceries. When Greek immigrants Athanasios and Efrosini Demoulas came to the United States, they farmed, kept livestock, and opened a small store to sell their wares. Throughout the Great Depression, the enterprise continued and allowed customers to take food home on credit. The name of the market has changed over the years, but Market Basket celebrated a century of operations in 2017 and remains a beloved grocery store across the country.

Once the market expanded, its reputation for quality items at decent, affordable costs helped cement the tagline "More For Your Dollar" as the brand's motto. Although the market is found only in eastern New England, its customers gush over the selection and variety of products along with the prices of meats and fresh produce. In addition to longevity, the grocery has consistently demonstrated lower pricing than other regional stores while maintaining a commitment to quality products. The grocery has topped other discount stores like Aldi and Walmart in ranking indexes by maintaining competitive prices and providing exceptional customer service. While other businesses have focused on digital offerings, Market Basket has remained true to its roots by concentrating on in-person experiences and keeping costs low for local shoppers. 

When comparing grocery prices at Market Basket with stores like Wegmans, Stop & Shop, and Whole Foods, prices at Market Basket for items like bread, yogurt, cheese, bacon, and eggs ran cheaper compared to the others. Market Basket publishes weekly deals, like $3.49 for 10-ounce cartons of Taste of the South dips. The same product, at the time of writing, was listed as $4.72 at Walmart, more than $5.50 at Publix, and just under $5 at Wegmans. Other price comparisons have analyzed more than 150 grocery items, noting that Market Basket consistently scored high on quality and low on prices. In addition to items like cheese, prepared foods like sub sandwiches and pizzas are ranked favorably by customers.

Not only are prices kept reasonable, Market Basket is known to pay its employees well and offers regular bonuses. This treatment has kept some employees around for years, as evidenced by name tags with the number of years of employment printed on each. With reliable, friendly customer service and prices that are friendly to the bank account, it is no wonder business remains steady and committed.