Market Basket has once again earned a spot near the very top of America’s grocery industry, ranking as the second-best grocery store chain in the country for the second year in a row, according to a new national study.
The ranking was released by dunnhumby, a global customer data science company that evaluates retailers based on how well they meet shopper needs over time. Only H-E-B, the Texas-based supermarket giant, ranked higher.
Why Market Basket Ranks So High Nationwide
According to dunnhumby, the most important driver of long-term retail success is helping customers save money, especially as inflation continues to pressure household budgets.
“Consumers across all income levels are feeling the squeeze and making more price-conscious choices,” said Matt O’Grady, president of the Americas for dunnhumby. “In this environment, building trust with American shoppers has never been more critical.”
Market Basket, headquartered in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, operates nearly 100 stores across New England and has built a reputation for low prices, consistent value, and customer loyalty, all of which factored heavily into its high ranking.
Human-Centered Shopping Sets Market Basket Apart
One unique feature that continues to distinguish Market Basket from many competitors is its lack of self-checkout lanes. Industry observers say this decision reinforces the company’s emphasis on personal service.
Grant Welker of the Boston Business Journal noted that Market Basket’s approach feels intentional.
“They want a person waiting on a person,” Welker said. “That human connection is what really separates it from a lot of its competitors.”
This focus on staffed checkout lines, combined with stable pricing and familiar store layouts, has helped Market Basket cultivate a loyal customer base even as many grocery chains adopt automation-heavy models.
Other Top Grocery Chains Recognized
Several other well-known grocery retailers also made dunnhumby’s Top 20 list, giving Massachusetts shoppers plenty of highly ranked options. These include Costco (No. 4), Aldi (No. 5), Trader Joe’s (No. 7), Amazon Fresh (No. 8), Wegmans (No. 9), Walmart (No. 11), and BJ’s Wholesale Club (No. 20).
Springfield-based Big Y was also highlighted for its quality offerings and strong selection of local products.
High Ranking Comes Amid Corporate Turmoil
Market Basket’s strong consumer ranking arrives during a period of internal conflict. The company has been embroiled in a long-running family power struggle involving leadership and control of the business.
In September, the board of directors fired CEO Arthur T. Demoulas, months after suspending him over allegations that he was planning a work stoppage. Both sides filed lawsuits, and the dispute went to trial in Delaware in December. A court decision is expected later this year.
The controversy echoes a dramatic moment in Market Basket’s history. In 2014, the chain experienced a nationwide spotlight when Demoulas was removed as CEO for the first time. Thousands of employees walked off the job in protest, customers boycotted stores, and shelves went bare as delivery drivers refused to supply locations. The pressure ultimately led to Demoulas being reinstated.
Customer Loyalty Remains Market Basket’s Strength
Despite leadership uncertainty, Market Basket continues to score exceptionally well with shoppers. Analysts say its combination of low prices, employee loyalty, and customer trust has helped insulate the brand from internal turmoil.
As grocery prices remain a top concern for American households, Market Basket’s consistent ranking near the top suggests that its value-driven model and people-first approach continue to resonate with customers across New England and beyond.
