New York: History seems to be repeating itself at Market Basket.
Longtime CEO Arthur T. Demoulas has been placed on paid administrative leave by the company’s board of directors, reigniting the family feud that once brought the grocery chain to a standstill in 2014. This time, the board is accusing Demoulas of planning a “work stoppage” and resisting board decisions—while he claims it’s nothing short of a “hostile takeover.”
Also placed on leave: his daughter Madeline Demoulas and son Telemachus, both of whom hold executive positions.
The Board’s Allegations
According to board statements and internal memos reported by ABC6 and WCVB, Arthur T. Demoulas:
- Defied collaborative governance
- Refused to engage in succession planning
- Allegedly acted unilaterally to appoint his children as future leaders
- Is under investigation for allegedly organizing a retaliatory work stoppage
Despite these charges, the board has assured Market Basket’s 25,000+ employees that their jobs and benefits are secure during the inquiry.
Demoulas Responds: “This Is a Hostile Takeover”
Through his spokesperson, Justine Griffin, Demoulas has dismissed the board’s actions as “a farcical cover for a hostile takeover” allegedly orchestrated by his three sisters and their allies on the board.
The language is loaded—and intentional. It echoes 2014, when a similar rift between family factions led to employee protests, customer boycotts, and Arthur T. being ousted, only to return after a dramatic $1.5 billion buyout of the company.
What’s at Stake for Market Basket?
The stakes are high. Market Basket operates 95 stores across New England, reported $7.3 billion in revenue in 2024, and has long been praised for its low prices and employee-first culture.
But with Demoulas out—at least for now—and public trust still fragile from past events, many wonder if this will hurt the brand’s momentum or trigger another internal revolt.
What Happens Next?
- The board is conducting a formal investigation
- Employees and unions have yet to publicly comment
- No official decision on permanent leadership has been announced
If history is any indication, this story could develop into a high-stakes boardroom showdown with public consequences—and fans of the 2014 saga are already watching closely.
At its core, this isn’t just about a CEO. It’s about family, legacy, and power in one of America’s most dramatic business dynasties. And in 2025, the fight for Market Basket may be just getting started—again.
