San Antonio, January 22, 2026
H-E-B has achieved the top position as the leading grocery retailer in the United States, surpassing competitors like Costco and Trader Joe’s. This win, recorded in the Retailer Preference Index by Dunnhumby, showcases H-E-B’s commitment to superior savings, quality, and customer experience. The Texas-based chain continues to resonate with shoppers, marking its fifth top ranking in nine years. As consumer preference shifts towards regional and value-oriented retailers, H-E-B’s success underscores the importance of quality products and competitive pricing in the grocery landscape.
San Antonio, Texas – H-E-B Tops U.S. Grocery Rankings, Surpassing Industry Giants
San Antonio-based H-E-B has been ranked as the top grocery retailer in the United States, surpassing major competitors such as Costco and Trader Joe’s. This marks the fifth time in nine years that H-E-B has secured the top position in the annual Retailer Preference Index (RPI) conducted by Dunnhumby, a UK-based customer data science firm.
Key Findings from the 2026 RPI
- H-E-B’s Consistent Leadership: The Texas chain has consistently delivered superior savings, quality, shopping experience, and product assortment, leading to its top ranking.
- Market Basket’s Rise: Market Basket, a New England-based chain, secured the second position, marking a significant improvement from its previous rankings.
- Costco’s Performance: Costco maintained its strong presence, holding the third spot in the rankings.
- Trader Joe’s Position: Trader Joe’s, known for its unique product offerings, ranked seventh, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences.
About H-E-B
Founded in 1905, H-E-B is a privately held supermarket chain headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. With over 435 stores across Texas and Mexico, H-E-B offers a wide range of products, including groceries, pharmacy services, and fuel. The company is renowned for its commitment to quality, customer service, and community involvement.
Implications for the Grocery Industry
The 2026 RPI results highlight a growing consumer preference for regional and value-oriented grocery retailers. H-E-B’s consistent top ranking underscores the importance of delivering quality products, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer experiences in maintaining consumer loyalty.
Related News
- H-E-B’s Expansion Plans: The company continues to expand its footprint, with new store openings planned in various Texas cities.
- Community Initiatives: H-E-B has launched several community programs aimed at supporting local farmers and reducing food waste.
- Technological Advancements: The retailer is investing in digital platforms to enhance the online shopping experience for its customers.
Key Features of H-E-B’s Success
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Assortment | Offers a wide range of products, including groceries, pharmacy services, and fuel. |
| Customer Service | Renowned for exceptional customer service and community involvement. |
| Competitive Pricing | Provides competitive pricing to deliver better savings to customers. |
| Quality | Committed to delivering high-quality products to consumers. |
| Community Engagement | Engages in various community programs supporting local farmers and reducing food waste. |
FAQ
What is the Retailer Preference Index (RPI)?
The RPI is an annual study conducted by Dunnhumby that evaluates grocery retailers based on consumer emotional sentiment, execution in meeting customer needs, and financial performance.
How many times has H-E-B been ranked as the top grocery retailer in the U.S.?
H-E-B has been ranked as the top grocery retailer in the U.S. five times in nine years, according to the 2026 RPI.
What factors contribute to H-E-B’s top ranking?
H-E-B’s top ranking is attributed to its superior ability to deliver a combination of better savings, quality, experience, and assortment.
Who are H-E-B’s main competitors in the grocery industry?
H-E-B’s main competitors include national chains like Costco and Trader Joe’s, as well as regional retailers such as Market Basket.
What is the significance of the RPI rankings for the grocery industry?
The RPI rankings provide insights into consumer preferences and highlight the importance of factors like price, quality, and customer experience in the grocery retail sector.
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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.
