H-E-B Named Top Grocery Retailer in the U.S. for Second Year

San Antonio, Texas, November 26, 2025

H-E-B has been recognized as the top grocery retailer in the United States for the second consecutive year, according to the Retailer Preference Index from dunnhumby. The rankings assess retailers based on customer value factors like price, quality, and convenience. H-E-B’s combination of savings, quality, and a focus on local products distinguishes it from its competitors. Additionally, H-E-B recently concluded its 12th Annual Quest for Texas Best competition, awarding $110,000 to five local entrepreneurs, reflecting its commitment to fostering local innovation.

San Antonio, Texas – H-E-B has achieved the remarkable distinction of being recognized as the top grocery retailer in the United States for the second consecutive year, according to the latest Retailer Preference Index (RPI) from data analytics firm dunnhumby. This ranking evaluates grocery retailers based on customer value propositions, considering vital factors such as prices, quality, digital capabilities, speed, and convenience. H-E-B’s strong performance further cements its significant position within the highly competitive grocery market.

The RPI rankings for 2024 show H-E-B leading the pack, followed by Amazon, Costco, Market Basket, and Sam’s Club. H-E-B’s ability to combine better savings, superior quality, enhanced shopping experiences, and a diverse product assortment distinguishes it from other retailers.

In addition to securing the top ranking, H-E-B has also wrapped up its 12th Annual Quest for Texas Best competition, a statewide initiative aimed at discovering and promoting exemplary products made in Texas. This year, the competition awarded a total of $110,000 in prize money to five deserving winners, all of whom will see their products showcased on H-E-B store shelves. This initiative underscores H-E-B’s unwavering commitment to fostering local entrepreneurship.

### 2025 Quest for Texas Best Winners

The winners of this year’s competition reflect the innovative spirit of Texas entrepreneurs:
– Grand Prize ($50,000): Oca Foods (Austin)
– First Place ($25,000): Tozi Super Foods (Austin)
– Second Place ($15,000): Deli Spices (McAllen)
– Third Place ($10,000): Spicytude (Dallas)
– Third Place ($10,000): My Drink Bomb (Houston)

With over 370 entries from nearly 150 Texas cities, this year’s competition exemplified the rich entrepreneurial spirit forged in Texas.

### The Importance of Local Support

H-E-B’s dedication to supporting local businesses enhances its reputation in the grocery sector. The Quest for Texas Best is more than just a competition; it is a vital initiative that showcases local innovation and allows customers to access a wide range of unique, quality products. Such support is crucial for sustaining the local economy, fostering job creation, and continuing Texas’s legacy of entrepreneurial success.

### Retailer Preference Index Explained

The Retailer Preference Index (RPI) is an annual ranking that provides invaluable insights into consumer preferences in the grocery retail sector. By evaluating factors that influence shopper choices, such as pricing and quality, the RPI helps retailers understand their market position and areas for improvement. H-E-B’s repeated success in this index is a testament to its effective business strategies in meeting consumer needs.

### H-E-B’s Competitive Edge

H-E-B’s distinctive advantages include not only its competitive pricing and quality but also its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences. This agility enhances the overall shopping experience, making H-E-B a favorite among Texas residents. The grocery chain’s success reflects a broader trend in the retail industry where innovation, consumer engagement, and localized offerings lead to sustained market leadership.

### Conclusion

H-E-B’s recognition as the leading grocery retailer and its robust support for local businesses through initiatives like the Quest for Texas Best illustrate the positive impact of entrepreneurship and community involvement in the Bexar County economy. As local residents, consumers have the opportunity to embrace these innovations and strengthen their communities by supporting local businesses. The continued success of H-E-B exemplifies how a limited regulatory environment can foster economic growth and encourage new business ventures in San Antonio.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Retailer Preference Index (RPI)?

The Retailer Preference Index (RPI) is an annual ranking released by dunnhumby that evaluates grocery retailers based on customer value propositions, considering factors such as prices, quality, digital capabilities, speed, and convenience. H-E-B has been recognized as the top grocery retailer in the United States for the second consecutive year in the 2024 RPI.

What is the Quest for Texas Best competition?

The Quest for Texas Best is an annual competition organized by H-E-B to discover and promote superior products made in Texas. In its 12th edition, the competition awarded a combined $110,000 in prize money to five winners, who will have their products featured on H-E-B store shelves.

Who were the winners of the 2025 Quest for Texas Best competition?

The winners of the 2025 Quest for Texas Best competition are:

• Grand Prize ($50,000): Oca Foods (Austin)
• First Place ($25,000): Tozi Super Foods (Austin)
• Second Place ($15,000): Deli Spices (McAllen)
• Third Place ($10,000): Spicytude (Dallas)
• Third Place ($10,000): My Drink Bomb (Houston)

These winners were selected from over 370 entries across nearly 150 Texas cities.

How does H-E-B support local businesses?

H-E-B supports local businesses through initiatives like the Quest for Texas Best competition, which provides a platform for Texas-made products to be featured on H-E-B store shelves. This commitment helps promote local entrepreneurship and offers customers a diverse range of quality products.

What factors contribute to H-E-B’s top ranking in the RPI?

H-E-B’s top ranking in the RPI is attributed to its ability to deliver a combination of better savings, quality, shopping experience, and assortment, setting it apart from other retailers.

Key Features of H-E-B’s Recent Achievements

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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER

The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.