Market Basket Protests a 'Nightmare' for Westford Businesses

Westford businesses surrounding the town’s two Market Basket stores say revenue has plummeted in the month since the grocery chain’s employees started protesting.

The grocery chain’s 25,000 employees have been on strike, demanding the return of ousted CEO Arthur T. Demoulas. He has been involved in an epic family feud with his cousin, Arthur S., who controls the company’s board.

Employees have urged customers to boycott Market Basket stores

The Lowell Sun reported Busa Wine & Spirits, Papa Gino’s, Radio Shack, Premier Cleaners, and Westford Wine & Spirits all said business has been down since the protest started. One worker called it a “nightmare.” Other businesses around Market Basket stores in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine have reported similar results.

Arthur T. has been trying to buy a majority share of the company. Executives have said some kind of resolution could be reached by the end of this week.

Photo: Market Basket customers rally in Tewksbury on Aug. 16. (Credit: Christa Lamb)