People boycotted Market Basket primarily because of the ousting of their beloved CEO, Arthur T. Demoulas, by the company's board of directors. This decision sparked a widespread movement of solidarity among employees and customers who strongly supported Demoulas.
The removal of Arthur T. Demoulas ignited a period of significant unrest, beginning in the summer of 2014. The protests, walkouts by employees, and boycotts by customers were a direct response to the change in leadership.
Key aspects of the boycott included:
- Employee Walkouts: Many Market Basket employees, from store managers to warehouse workers, walked off the job in protest, refusing to work under the new management.
- Customer Boycotts: Loyal customers actively participated by refusing to shop at Market Basket stores, leading to empty aisles and significant financial pressure on the company.
- Widespread Impact: The conflict affected over 70 Market Basket stores across the region, demonstrating the deep loyalty and commitment both employees and customers had for Arthur T. Demoulas and his vision for the company.
- Duration: The period of intense protests, walkouts, and boycotts lasted for six weeks.
- Resolution: The prolonged conflict concluded when a deal was reached just before midnight on August 27, 2014, which ultimately led to Arthur T. Demoulas's return to the company.
The boycott was a powerful demonstration of consumer and employee loyalty, successfully pressuring the company to reinstate their preferred leader.
