Maybe if Shaw's would lower their prices, they could once again become competitive. Their prices are at least 20-30% higher than Market Basket. I only stop in Shaw's to pick up a few items as a convenience and haven't bought a full cart of groceries there in many years. . Both of the Merrimack stores always seem like they are empty with few if any customers in the aisles. When is the last time that you saw more than one or two cashiers open? I can't remember the last time that I had to wait in line.

I agree with both of you. I just can't understand WHY we in Merrimack only have one grocery store chain to shop at! I hate going out of town but there's no choice. As you John, I only shop convenience when necessary. Most of my shopping is done elsewhere. Course, I also resent the fact that Market Basket is building all kinds of stores all over the Southern NH area but NONE in Merrimack! GRRRR!

Deb Merrimack
I agree with both of you. I would love to see Shaws out of Merrimack or at the very least have a Market Basket here in Town. I have seen some items 50% higher than Market Basket. I don't know how people especially families can afford to shop at Shaws these days. When I have stopped there for a quick pick up , I feel like I was held at gun point and roobed of every dime. Have not been back in a long time.

I only shop there when I absolutely have no other choice. Their prices are high, there selection is slim and their produce is wilted and bad. Most likely due to the fact that they rip you off, and people choose to shop elsewhere. They dug their own grave by creating a monopoly in Merrimack, and I love it when I leave a very packed Market Basket only to realize I forgot one thing, and pop into Shaws on the way home for that one thing and I am the only person in the store. Serves them right.

You'd think Shaw's would at least match the pricing of other chains. I, like others, only use Shaw's for a few items here and there, as it's more convenient then traveling out of town. It'll be interesting to see what happens.

I would like to post a positive comment in support of Shaw's. In the 20 plus years that Shaw's has been in Merrimack; they have always been a good community neighbor, employing countless MHS students and always giving freely to the schools when asked. I know for a fact that they support local elementary schools whenever they are asked for a donation, even in light of their current corporate situation. Where do the high school booster clubs go for ice when they need it? Yes, Shaw's. So, while the company is not convenient for you any longer, rather than complain, maybe we should be saying "thank you" for the past and hopefully the future under new ownership and a new business plan. Maybe we should be looking at our town government and ask why it is so hard to promote retail or corporate business is Merrimack? Could it be the demographics and tolls at each exit? Look at Bedford's growth, then ask why isn't Merrimack following or better yet, doing something positive to encourage local business.

I would like to clarify for anyone on my previous post that may 'think or assume' That I am posting on behalf of the MSD - I am not. The statements about the schools and booster clubs are from my personal experience as the parent of two former Merrimack students. Any interaction with Shaw's was on behalf of the parent group and booster clubs. I wanted clarify since I am also an employee of the District.

Shaws is good for SOME specials but overrall, Market Basket is for sure a better place to shop and save