New England’s Grocery Showdown: Hannaford, Shaw’s, or Market Basket?

Best New England Grocery Store: Hannaford, Shaw's, or Market Basket?

Here in Northern New England, the grocery store hierarchy is a serious business. While Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s exist, we’re talking about the true, one-stop shops—where you can grab your groceries, a random kitchen gadget you’ll never use, and a last-minute birthday card all in one trip.

For most of us, the big three are Hannaford, Shaw’s, and Market Basket. And if you’ve ever met a New Englander, you know many are as fiercely loyal to their grocery store of choice as they are to their favorite sports team.

Many people say Hannaford is the only way to go, while some treat Market Basket like a sacred institution, and the others that feel like Shaw’s is the only civilized option. Personally, I bounce between all three because, well, I like to save money and also enjoy the thrill of an efficient grocery run. So, who really comes out on top? Let’s break it down.

Cost: The Battle of the Budgets

Times are tough, and let’s be real—New Englanders love a good deal almost as much as they love their Dunkin’. When it comes to everyday prices, Market Basket takes the crown, no contest. Hannaford follows closely behind, with Shaw’s landing as the priciest option… but not always. We’ll get to that.

Sales: Who’s Got the Best Weekly Deals?

If you’re one of those people who meticulously plan your grocery haul based on the weekly flyer, good news: all three stores have solid deals. But if you really want to maximize your savings, downloading their apps is key.

Hannaford, Shaw’s, and Market Basket all have digital coupons, but Shaw’s “For U” program is the real MVP. We’re talking things like $2 bags of Lay’s and Cape Cod chips, half-priced frozen pizzas, and personalized deals based on what you actually buy (so yes, your snack addiction will be rewarded). Just don’t forget to “clip” the deal and put in your phone number at the checkout. 

Bonus tip: Shaw’s also has a 50% off bakery section for items nearing expiration. If you’re cool with freezing a loaf of bread or inhaling a box of cupcakes in 24 hours, this can often be a goldmine. Plus, their clearance section often has huge discounts just because of minor packaging damage—perfect if you don’t mind a dented can or a slightly torn box of Fancy Feast.

Grab-and-Go Food: Who Does It Best?

If you’re hungry now and don’t want to pay restaurant prices, Market Basket is the king of affordable take-out food. Their massive made-to-go section features large pizzas for just $9.99 and a solid lineup of hot and cold sandwiches under $7. Need a quick meal that doesn’t require assembling ingredients? This is your place.

Convenience: Store Layout & Shopping Experience

Ah, the great Market Basket paradox: cheapest groceries, but also the highest chance of needing to elbow your way through the narrow aisles. People love the savings, but the chaotic energy of a Saturday afternoon trip could break even the most patient soul. That said, most checkout lanes are usually open, so at least you won’t spend eternity in line.

Hannaford takes the lead in sheer number of locations, but how busy it gets depends on when and where you go. It’s also an obvious choice for CLYNK customers looking to drop off their big green bags of returnables—many of whom end up spending their earnings right there on groceries.

Shaw’s, on the other hand, is your go-to if you just can’t deal with crowds. If you’re someone who likes to shop in peace and looking for a lower risk of running into that person that you don’t want to see, Shaw’s is often the least chaotic, making it the MVP of “quick in, quick out” grocery runs.

So, Who’s the Best?

If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest groceries, Market Basket, in my eyes, is the clear winner. Hannaford is a solid middle ground with lots of locations. But if you want the best deals on certain items and an easy, stress-free shopping experience, Shaw’s might be your best bet—especially if you love scoring 50% off deals.

At the end of the day, the best grocery store is the one that makes your life easiest (or at least doesn’t make you want to have a breakdown mid-shopping trip), whether you’re looking for the lowest everyday prices, best sales, or easy-in, easy-out shopping.