The Grocery Chain That's Challenging Aldi With Its Low Prices

Budget-conscious shoppers have several well-known grocery retailers on their go-to lists. You can invest in a membership at one of the cheapest wholesale grocery chains, head to a dependable option like Walmart, or, for especially excellent savings, stop by Aldi. Indeed, the retailer's groceries are so cheap by way of strategies like a stripped-down shopping experience, abundant private labels, and pragmatic distribution channels.

Its approach makes Aldi pretty unique among retailers; however, the world of grocery shopping does come with tight competition. For an especially economical alternative, keep an eye on Market Basket. Pop into one of 95 locations of this chain — found exclusively in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine — and you'll find foods at eye-catching prices. In a 2022 study conducted by the Consumer's Checkbook, Market Basket offered some 18% of savings on a 154-item grocery haul, compared to other Boston stores. And in an updated 2025 analysis by The Boston Globe, an assortment of ten kitchen staples came out to $38.28, while the same haul sets shoppers back $50 at Whole Foods and $40.01 at Wegmans.

Clearly, Market Basket delivers some reverse sticker shock in a time when many could use a cost-saving break. Yet how does it compare to the attractively frugal Adli? Well, while there hasn't been a direct comparison, a 2022 study conducted by customer data science firm dunnhumby (via Supermarket News) revealed that Market Basket outperformed Aldi in targeting inflation. And on a 2025 Reddit thread, users note the costs feel neck-in-neck, but with Market Basket offering an expanded selection of goods.

Step into one of New England's beloved Market Basket stores, and you'll discover a unique shopping experience. A nostalgic old-school feel permeates the atmosphere, thanks to the furnishings and employee uniforms. Across a fairly large real estate, you'll find many aisles of classic food offerings, from canned goods to fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as ready-made foods like rotisserie chickens, sandwiches, pizza, and even a cafe. Opposed to the major grocery departments you don't find at Aldi, there's a deli, meat, and seafood counter, featuring local fish and house-ground meats. Across the board, it's a much more traditional shopping experience than the often warehouse-like environs of other affordable retailers.

Nevertheless, there are a few quirks to the experience, which do play a part in keeping costs down. Market Basket locations often prioritize shopping density over relaxed spaciousness. Customers report frequent crowds, which turn the already slightly cramped space into a grocery cart traffic jam. Areas like the deli counter often employ only one or two people, worsening wait times. And groceries often get restocked amidst operations, only adding to the chaos. Furthermore, much like Aldi, don't expect elaborate coupons or cutesy seasonal displays. Although if that's what it takes to get a breadth of grocery needs at an accessible cost, for many, the tradeoff is worthwhile.