San Antonio, Texas, January 11, 2026
H-E-B has been recognized as the leading grocery retailer in the United States for the fifth time in nine years, according to the Retailer Preference Index. Their success is attributed to exceptional customer service, quality products, and a focus on community engagement. Competing retailers like Market Basket and Costco follow closely behind in the rankings, which illustrates the competitive nature of the grocery sector. H-E-B’s commitment to customer satisfaction continues to foster business resilience and economic growth in San Antonio and beyond.
H-E-B Named Top U.S. Grocery Retailer Again in 2025
Texas-based H-E-B continues its reign with loyal customer support and strategic business practices.
San Antonio, Texas – In a prominent recognition of retail excellence, H-E-B has been ranked as the top grocery retailer in the United States for the fifth time in nine years, according to the Retailer Preference Index (RPI) released by Dunnhumby. This remarkable achievement showcases H-E-B’s dedication to meeting customer needs while enhancing its effective business strategies.
The Retailer Preference Index evaluates various factors affecting consumer shopping experiences, including emotional sentiments, execution in customer service, and overall financial performance. H-E-B’s ongoing success emphasizes its strong resonance with customers and highlights the importance of effective entrepreneurship in fostering business resilience even amid economic challenges. The ranking is a testament to how Texas entrepreneurs often demonstrate the potential of limited regulation to innovate and cater to consumer demands.
What Contributes to H-E-B’s Top Ranking?
H-E-B’s consistent ranking at the top can be attributed to its ability to deliver superior savings, quality, and customer experience. These elements combine to create an appealing shopping environment that resonates deeply with its customer base. The grocery chain’s focus on understanding shopper preferences and ensuring product assortment aligns with these desires highlights the value of community engagement and feedback in driving business success.
Comparison with Other Retailers
In the latest RPI, H-E-B stood strong while competitors, such as New England’s Market Basket, claimed second place, advancing from fourth in the previous year. Costco maintained its third position, followed by WinCo Foods and Aldi, rounding out the top five. This ranking emphasizes the competitive nature of the grocery retail sector and how businesses continuously adapt to improve their market standings.
The Importance of the Retailer Preference Index
The Retailer Preference Index serves as a vital tool in analyzing the U.S. grocery market. It assesses crucial factors such as price, quality, and customer experience, allowing retailers to understand consumer preferences better and adapt accordingly. H-E-B’s sustained performance in this index reflects its significant influence within the grocery retail sector, not just in Texas but on a national scale.
Potential for Economic Growth
H-E-B’s focus on maintaining high standards in both product offerings and customer service exemplifies how local businesses in San Antonio and Bexar County can drive economic growth. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and supporting their communities, small businesses contribute to a robust, resilient local economy that can weather fluctuations in broader market trends.
Support Your Local Businesses
As H-E-B continues to reinforce its position in the grocery market, it is essential for local residents to recognize and support their homegrown businesses. Every purchase at H-E-B is a contribution to the local economy and helps foster a favorable environment for additional entrepreneurial ventures. Engaging with local businesses not only boosts the economy but also strengthens community bonds and encourages innovative growth within the region.
Understanding the elements that lift businesses like H-E-B to success can inspire further efforts to emphasize innovation, quality, and customer service among other local retailers. The ongoing success of H-E-B serves as a beacon of what’s possible when solid business practices are paired with customer-focused strategies.
Key Takeaways
H-E-B’s top ranking confirms the effectiveness of its business model and reflects the company’s commitment to excellence and consumer satisfaction. By continuing to support local businesses, the San Antonio community can help ensure a prosperous economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Retailer Preference Index (RPI)?
The Retailer Preference Index (RPI) is a comprehensive study analyzing the U.S. grocery market, assessing factors such as price, quality, and customer experience to determine retailer rankings.
How does H-E-B maintain its top ranking?
H-E-B’s success is attributed to its ability to deliver a combination of better savings, quality, experience, and assortment, effectively catering to its customer base.
Who are the top five retailers in the 2025 RPI?
The top five retailers in the 2025 RPI are: 1) H-E-B, 2) Market Basket, 3) Costco, 4) WinCo Foods, and 5) Aldi.
| Retailer | Ranking in 2025 RPI |
|---|---|
| H-E-B | 1st |
| Market Basket | 2nd |
| Costco | 3rd |
| WinCo Foods | 4th |
| Aldi | 5th |
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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.
