According to an anonymous faculty survey of which 35 Oakmont teachers responded- 68%  shop at Market Basket, 54% shop at Hannaford. It is interesting to know that some faculty members who responded shop at both Market Basket and Hannafords, 20% shop at Walmart, 14% shop at Price Chopper, 11%  Target, 2% Stop & Shop, and Wegmans, 5% Trader Joe’s, and surprisingly none of the faculty members shop at Whole Foods or Aldi.

 The survey showed that the greatest reason why the staff members chose to shop where they shop is the ‘selection’ the store had. This seemed to be paired most often with Market Basket and Hannaford. Both stores have a wide assortment of items that people can choose from. Another major reason would be the prices. This was most commonly selected with Market Basket. Other shopping preferences that were not as commonly picked include the following: Easy to get around, cleanliness, pleasant environment, and friendly employees. 

The main reason Market Basket was chosen was the low prices. But how do they keep them so low? According to a 2014 article published on Boston.com written by Adam Vaccaro, they keep their prices low by avoiding debt. Monthly debt can take high amounts off of the profit that the store made. The store also tries to stay efficient at all times so they can keep a steady profit coming in. Another huge reason is convenience. There are 54 stores spread throughout Massachusetts, some of them being conveniently located near many Oakmont staff members. The closest to us are two in Fitchburg, one in Leominster, one in Athol, and one in Rindge NH.  

One staff member said that they shop at Market Basket 90% of the time compared to Hannaford because of the prices. Some other comments included the following: “I hate going to the grocery store.”, “Prices are too high no matter where you shop!”, “Shopping is as much an experience as it is a necessity.”, and “I really enjoy using the Hannaford app for grocery pick up and delivery.” 

Some of the feedback says that Market Basket is better in location and the prices are slightly better. But other feedback says that Hannaford has exactly what they need. One teacher said that Hannaford has great dairy-free/gluten-free options, and it is a good place to shop to accommodate food allergies. Other teachers said that they loved the curbside pick-up option that Hannaford offered – something some might consider because a few teachers said they do not enjoy the grocery shopping experience. But since they have to do it they have all chosen a place that accommodates all of their shopping needs.