We the People: The Market Basket Effect

A Frank Capra story come to life, filmmaker Tommy Reid's documentary We the People looks at the business drama surrounding the New England discount grocery chain Market Basket, family-owned and long successfully run by the Greek-immigrant Demoulas dynasty with an entrenched notion of fair wages and good employee relations. But with a family split (yes, the words “Greek tragedy” are applicable), a number of majority shareholders among the discontented Demoulas relatives demanded an end to worker incentives and bonuses and a greater share of profits (if not a cashing out of the business altogether). Ultimately, the family engineers the ouster of ethical CEO Arthur “Artie T.” Demoulas, which triggers a rebellion among both laborers and customers to bring back a boss and figurehead they like and respect. The film notes that the anti-Artie T. faction of Demoulas heirs did not respond to interview requests, making this an arguably one-sided account, but the considerable input from local journalists and politicians paints a persuasive picture of the situation, underscoring how good deeds and enlightened management can have a positive outcome, even in today's ruthless corporate climate. Narrated by actor Michael Chiklis, this inspiring business documentary is highly recommended. (C. Cassady)