# data[].attributes.headline
Woman sues HEB for slipping on eggs and fell into basket

# data[].attributes.subject
Woman sues HEB for slipping on eggs and fell into basket

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Attorney Chad Points | Denena & Points

HOUSTON - A woman is suing the HEB Grocery Company claiming that she stepped on eggs left on the floor and slipped, falling forward into her basket.

Seeking up to $1 million in damages, Danita Woodson filed her suit on Jan. 18 in Harris County District Court.

According to her lawsuit, on Oct. 28, 2023, Woodson was shopping for groceries at a Houston H-E-B. She was in the dairy section when she stepped on eggs on the floor.

"The Plaintiff slipped and fell forward into her basket and toward the ground," the suit states. "Defendant... negligently allowed the... unreasonably dangerous condition."

Woodson is seeking damages for her alleged pain, mental anguish, medical expenses and lost earnings.

The Denena & Points law firm represents her.

Case No. 2024-03363

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Woman sues H-E-B claiming she slipped on eggs and fell into basket

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
HOUSTON - A woman is suing the HEB Grocery Company claiming that she stepped on eggs left on the floor and slipped, falling forward into her basket.

# data[].attributes.headline
Pasadena is one of 5 districts to make finalist in HEB award program

# data[].attributes.subject
Pasadena is one of 5 districts to make finalist in HEB award program

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Pasadena ISD has been chosen as a finalist in the 22nd Annual H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program for the second consecutive year.

Pasadena ISD is one of five Texas districts selected in the large school district category along with nearby Galena Park ISD, according to the Pasadena ISD website.

As a finalist, Pasadena will receive $5,000 and is eligible to compete at the statewide level in May to receive greater cash prizes.

Article continues below this ad

Pasadena ISD located in the second largest city in Harris County and has a student population of 49,326 students and employs 3,828.17 classroom teachers for the 2023-2024 school year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

The recognition is based on the district's implementation of various programs that focus on parent and community participation as well as development opportunities for educators and administrators.

"We are proud to receive this recognition as it proves once again, we are an incredible district and community," said Pasadena ISD Superintendent DeeAnn Powell said via email.

Statewide winners will be determined by a panel of judges who will tour each finalist's campus, meet with staff, including administration, teachers, parents, and members of the community.

Article continues below this ad

The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards will be held May 5 at the Marriott Marquis in Houston.

Pasadena ISD and other large district finalists are eligible to receive the winning cash prize of $100,000.

"Our board, administration, and campus faculties work hard to provide the best possible education for our students," said Powell.

If Pasadena ISD is selected to receive the winning amount, Powell said a small committee made up of district stakeholders will determine how to utilize the funds.

Article continues below this ad

The district began the 2023-2024 school year with the implementation of a free lunch program which was funded through a Community Eligibility Provision grant.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
national center for education statistics

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
annual h-e-b excellence in education awards

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
/jobs & education/education/primary & secondary schooling (k-12)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Pasadena ISD one of 5 large districts in Texas to make finalist in H-E-B award program

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Pasadena ISD one of 5 large districts in Texas to make finalist in H-E-B award program

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Created in 2002, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards are designed to honor outstanding public school professionals and to thank them for their dedication and commitment.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "Dont walk, run before the H-E-B Valentine’s Day merch sells out! 🏃‍♂️ 

#valentinesday #valentinesdaygift"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
1,404 likes, 50 comments - heb on January 19, 2024: "Dont walk, run before the H-E-B Valentine’s Day merch sells out! 🏃‍♂️ 

#valentinesday..."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In partnership with Texan by Nature, H-E-B Trees for Texans enriches the places we call home by planting trees

# data[].attributes.headline
PBS stations across Texas have teamed up with H-E-B

# data[].attributes.subject
PBS stations across Texas have teamed up with H-E-B

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
PBS stations across Texas have teamed up with H-E-B to showcase Texas Wildlife: Our Future, a 60-minute program exploring efforts to protect the state's fauna and outdoor spaces. The film collection highlights research of devout Texans to preserve species and their habitats, and to reverse the effects of practices like overfishing.

Broadcasting on January 31 at 9pm, the program showcases four documentaries that delve into the state's habitat preservation of endangered species: "Batsies," "Redfish Revival," "Second Chance," and "Ranching With Ocelots." Available in the streaming version of the program is a fifth film, "Texas State Parks Centennial," which expands on the landscape and diversity of nearly 90 Texas State Parks. The films were produced by H-E-B in conjunction with Austin production company Fin & Fur Films. The Emmy award-winning team is spearheaded by filmmaker Ben Masters, who also directed Deep in the Heart, a celebration of Texas wildlife and scenery that aired on PBS stations across Texas last April.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Elizabeth Unger, "Batsies" was recently named Best Short Film in Conservation at the Jackson Wild Media Awards, which is considered one of the highest achievements in natural history filmmaking. The 15-minute short follows Texas State University wildlife biologists and the measures they've taken to protect Texas' bat population against wind turbines.

Texas Wildlife: Our Future is a part of H-E-B's ongoing pledge to practice sustainability and minimize its impact on the environment. The partnership the company has with Texas PBS has helped bring awareness to longstanding environmental issues and encourage eco-conscious practices within the Lone Star State.

"H-E-B has a deep commitment to support all Texans, and that includes helping to protect, conserve, and beautify our great state for people to enjoy now and for generations to come," said Leslie Sweet, managing director of sustainability and environmental affairs for H-E-B. "We're excited to support these passionate filmmakers and their mission to tell important stories that we hope will inspire people to celebrate and protect the diverse habitats, unique wildlife, and beautiful landscapes across Texas."

Got something to say? The Chronicle welcomes opinion pieces on any topic from the community. Submit yours now at austinchronicle.com/opinion.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Texas Wildlife: Our Future to Broadcast on Texas PBS Stations

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Four shorts spotlight the state's flora and fauna on Wednesday

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "Has anyone ever actually had ratatouille? 👀 

RECIPE BELOW ⬇️ 

Ingredients:
1 cup Zucchini squash, sliced paper thin
1 cup Squash, sliced paper thin
1 cup Purple eggplant, sliced paper thin
1 tbsp Garlic cloves, grated or microplaned
1 tsp Kosher salt
2 cups Vegan bolognese sauce
1/2 cup Vegan Soy Free Grated Parmesan Style Topping

Instructions:
 1) Preheat oven to 375°F.
2) In a 8 X 8- inch baking dish, overlap alternating slices of vegetables around border of dish, working towards center of pan. Salt veggies and top with garlic. 
3) Spread vegan bolognese sauce over veggies and bake 15 minutes.
4) Remove casserole from oven, top with Parmesan and bake an additional 5 minutes to melt cheese.

#veganratatouille #ratatouille"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
178 likes, 13 comments - heb on January 30, 2024: "Has anyone ever actually had ratatouille? 👀 

RECIPE BELOW ⬇️ 

Ingredients:
1 cup Zucchin..."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.headline
Company policy prohibits rallies or protests on company property

# data[].attributes.subject
Company policy prohibits rallies or protests on company property

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
AUSTIN (Nexstar) - The "Take Our Border Back Convoy" will head from Dripping Springs to Eagle Pass, Texas later this week in a show of force organizers say will "call on our government to take action" to "secure the southern border."

"The time is now for WE THE PEOPLE to PEACEFULLY assemble in honor of our U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights," organizers wrote on the convoy's website.

The trip is part of a nationwide call to action bringing people to various hotspots along the border including Eagle Pass, Yuma, Arizona, and San Ysidro, California. The group invites "active and retired law enforcement and military, veterans, Mama Bears, elected officials, business owners, ranchers, truckers, bikers, media, and law-abiding, freedom-loving Americans."

The Texas stint will include a "pep rally" at the Dripping Springs H-E-B on Thursday, Feb. 1. The group will then leave from Dripping Springs on Feb. 2 and travel to the Cornerstone Children's Ranch in Quemado.

A spokesperson for H-E-B reached out to KXAN to let us know company policy prohibits rallies or protests on company property regardless of the reason for the event. They have attempted to let organizers of the event know they will need to gather somewhere else.

Organizers stress the convoy and demonstrations will be peaceful and not pose a threat to the public or law enforcement operations.

"We're not going to blockade," an organizer said in a Sunday video address. "We don't want to cause any problems for law enforcement or the National Guard... we don't want to put anyone in danger."

Some border residents and advocacy groups are wary, however. The League of United Latin American Citizens issued its second-ever "National Alert" in response to the convoy, warning of possible violence and criticizing Gov. Abbott of spreading harmful rhetoric.

"When you incite people like that, and you make them angry, they lose their head," LULAC National Vice President for the Southwest Ray Mancera said. "That's the same thing that happened with this guy that came over from Dallas to El Paso to shoot. He came down hunting for Mexicans. We have not forgotten El Paso."

The convoy's official conduct expectations requires that members agree to "peacefully participate."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
'Take Our Border Back Convoy' heading through Central Texas to Eagle Pass

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Organizers stress the convoy will be peaceful and not pose a threat to the public or law enforcement operations.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you've been seeing H-E-B stickers as an option to text, you're eyes are not deceiving you. San Antonio's H-E-B rolled out new stickers for texting in the iOS system earlier this month, the grocery giant told MySA.

The H-E-B stickers feature several different logos, foods and customer favorites from its brand, such as a sticker of its ice cream Creamy Creations, a picture of a Meal Simple, an H-E-B logo, the Texas Pecan coffee, the flour tortillas and more.

H-E-B said the stickers are currently only available for use on iOS. Although, Android users can receive messages with the HEB stickers. The stickers are available for users who have the My H-E-B app on their devices.

Article continues below this ad

In Texas, H-E-B is a popular and loved grocery store for many. The company was recently named the best grocery retailer in the nation on January 11 by Dunnhumby, a U.K.-based global consumer research company. H-E-B beat Amazon and Costco in the ranking. It was also the second year in a row that H-E-B claimed the top spot.

The story of H‑E‑B began in 1905 in a small, family‑owned store in Kerrville in the Texas Hill Country, according to its website. H‑E‑B now serves families all over Texas and Mexico with more than 420 stores and over 145,000 employees, with its headquarters in San Antonio.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B silently rolls out new feature for Apple users

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
San Antonio's grocery chain H-E-B rolled out new stickers for texting in the iOS system.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
About H-E-B | Company History, Culture & Stores

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
H-E-B has been proudly serving Texans since 1905. Learn more about our rich company history, and why staying true to our values and people has made H-E-B a fantastic place to grow your career.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B launches Spurs commercials featuring Victor Wembanyama, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan and Devin Vassell - H-E-B Newsroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
H-E-B's beloved San Antonio Spurs commercials are back and bigger than ever. This year's fun-filled commercials will feature all the hilarity and hijinks fans have come to expect with some...

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Walmart Raises Store Managers' Pay, Ups Stock Grants to a Maximum of $20,000 - Retail TouchPoints

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Walmart will raise U.S. store managers' pay from an average of $117,000 annually to $128,000 and changed its bonus program to include a store's profits.

# data[].attributes.headline
Three-way tie for best in customer satisfaction

# data[].attributes.subject
Three-way tie for best in customer satisfaction

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
H-E-B has shoved Trader Joe's out of the top spot in a new ranking of U.S. supermarkets by levels of customer satisfaction, the latest that found it at or near the top of rankings by its customers.

The San Antonio-based chain landed in a three-way tie with Costco and Publix with a score of 85 out of 100, up 5 percent from last year, in the survey by the American Customer Satisfaction Index.

Last year's winner, Trader Joe's, followed closely behind with a score of 84, the same it had last year. Walmart had a score of 74.

Article continues below this ad

Overall, customer satisfaction with U.S. supermarkets increased by 4 percent, to 79 percent, as price inflation eased and customers "perceived stronger value through better sales and promotions," the survey said in a statement about the results.

It drew distinctions between the three top winners.

Publix, a chain with 1,365 locations in Florida and elsewhere in the Southeast, "sets the standard across much of the in-store experience, including staff courtesy and store cleanliness and layout," the release said, "while Costco and H-E-B win on value. All three benefit greatly from the popularity of their private label brands."

More than 60 percent of U.S. retailers included in the surveys saw their scores rise from the prior year. Falling gasoline prices led satisfaction scores for gas stations to surge 15 percent, to 75 out of 100.

Article continues below this ad

"As seen across other sectors of the economy, issues stemming from the pandemic, including supply disruptions and uneven service quality, are dissipating," Forrest Morgeson, director of research emeritus with the index, said in a statement. "For industries like supermarkets and gas stations, moderating inflation is helping to improve the value proposition."

Walmart, H-E-B's main competitor in San Antonio, scored higher for its pharmacy business, ranking top amongst "smaller drugstores" with a score of 82, according to the release.

The survey, known as the ACSI Retail and Consumer Shipping Study 2023-2024, was based on interviews with 40,264 customers chosen at random and reached by email between January and December.

Last month, H-E-B took the top spot in the "retailer preference index" by U.K.-based customer data science firm Dunnhumby.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B lands in three-way tie for tops in customer satisfaction in new national supermarket survey

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Publix, a Southeastern supermarket chain, "sets the standard across much of the in-store experience" while H-E-B and Costco rank for value.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com

Introduction

In recent years, H-E-B, the beloved Texas grocery chain, has gained recognition for its exceptional disaster response and emergency preparedness efforts. While the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the company's ability to adapt and serve the community during a crisis, H-E-B's commitment to disaster relief and community support has been in place for over a decade. Through lessons learned from past emergencies and a proactive approach to preparedness, H-E-B has become a model for other businesses facing similar challenges.

Overview of H-E-B's commitment to disaster relief and community support

H-E-B's commitment to disaster relief and community support can be traced back to 2005, when Hurricane Rita struck southeast Texas. The company quickly realized the importance of critical resources such as power and potable water to keep its stores operational during emergencies. As a result, H-E-B increased its fleet of mobile generators and implemented water tankers to ensure a stable supply of drinking water.

Over the years, H-E-B has continued to invest in disaster response capabilities, refining its strategies and building strong partnerships with local and state agencies. The company understands that being prepared for emergencies is not only crucial for its own operations but also for supporting the communities it serves. H-E-B stores often serve as key hubs for restocking supplies, distributing relief items, and providing essential services during times of crisis.

The importance of staying on the front lines of disaster response

H-E-B's proactive approach to disaster response goes beyond simply preparing for potential emergencies. The company actively collaborates with emergency management teams, local officials, and non-profit organizations to ensure a coordinated and effective response. By staying on the front lines, H-E-B can assess and address immediate needs, mobilize resources, and provide assistance to affected communities in a timely manner.

One key aspect of H-E-B's disaster response strategy is its focus on community involvement. The company understands that successful relief efforts require community support, and H-E-B actively engages with its customers to gather feedback, assess evolving needs, and tailor its response accordingly. This collaborative approach not only strengthens H-E-B's ability to address challenges effectively but also fosters a sense of resilience and unity within the community.

H-E-B's commitment to disaster response and emergency preparedness extends beyond immediate relief efforts. The company continuously evaluates and updates its protocols, invests in advanced technologies, and conducts regular training exercises to ensure its teams are ready to respond to any crisis. By staying proactive and adaptable, H-E-B has set a benchmark for other businesses in the industry and has established itself as a trusted partner in times of need.

In conclusion, H-E-B's journey towards becoming a model of emergency preparedness is grounded in its deep-rooted commitment to its communities. Through lessons learned from past emergencies and a proactive approach to disaster response, H-E-B has prioritized the well-being of its customers and employees. As Texas's beloved grocery chain continues to serve as a beacon of resilience, other businesses can draw inspiration from H-E-B's practices to enhance their own disaster response capabilities.

H-E-B's Emergency Preparedness Team

Role of H-E-B's Emergency Preparedness Team in providing updates during emergency events

During times of crisis, H-E-B's Emergency Preparedness Team plays a crucial role in ensuring that the company is well-equipped to handle any emergency situation. This dedicated team is responsible for developing and implementing plans to keep both employees and customers safe.

One of the key responsibilities of the Emergency Preparedness Team is to provide timely updates and information during emergency events. They work closely with local authorities, emergency management agencies, and medical professionals to gather accurate information and share it with the public. By doing so, H-E-B ensures that everyone has access to the latest information and can make informed decisions for themselves and their families.

In addition to providing updates, the team also coordinates with H-E-B stores and distribution centers to ensure that they have the necessary supplies and resources to serve the community during emergencies. This involves stockpiling essential items such as food, water, and medical supplies, as well as establishing alternative distribution channels in case regular supply routes are disrupted.

The official Facebook page as a reliable source for the latest information

To effectively communicate with customers and provide real-time updates, H-E-B utilizes its official Facebook page as a reliable source for the latest information during emergency events. With a large following on social media, H-E-B's Facebook page serves as a valuable platform to reach a wide audience.

Through regular updates and posts, the company provides information on store operations, product availability, and any safety measures that may be in place. This ensures that customers are well-informed about the status of their local store and can plan accordingly.

H-E-B also utilizes Facebook Live sessions to address customer concerns and answer questions directly. These live streams allow customers to interact with company representatives and receive up-to-date information in real-time. This level of transparency and engagement helps build trust and reassures customers that their needs are being addressed.

In conclusion, H-E-B's Emergency Preparedness Team plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of both employees and customers during emergency events. By providing timely updates and utilizing social media platforms like Facebook, H-E-B has established itself as a reliable source of information for the community. The company's proactive approach to emergency preparedness sets an example for other businesses and demonstrates the importance of being well-prepared for any crisis situation.

H-E-B's Disaster Relief Units

Services provided by H-E-B's Disaster Relief Units in natural disaster areas

H-E-B's commitment to serving its community extends beyond just providing groceries. The company has developed a fleet of Disaster Relief Units that are mobilized during natural disasters to provide essential services to affected areas.

These Disaster Relief Units are equipped with a variety of resources and services to assist communities in need. Some of the services provided include:

- **Hot meals**: H-E-B's mobile kitchens are capable of preparing and serving thousands of hot meals per day. These meals are distributed to individuals and families who may have limited access to food during a disaster.

- **Showers**: H-E-B recognizes the importance of personal hygiene, especially in challenging times. Their Disaster Relief Units are equipped with shower facilities, allowing individuals to clean themselves and maintain their dignity even in the midst of a crisis.

- **Supplies**: In addition to food and hygiene services, H-E-B's Disaster Relief Units also carry a wide range of supplies that are essential for survival during a disaster. These supplies may include blankets, bedding, toiletries, and other essential items that individuals and families may need.

- **Mobile pharmacies**: H-E-B understands the importance of access to medication, especially for those with chronic conditions. To address this need, their Disaster Relief Units are equipped with mobile pharmacies that can dispense necessary medications to those in need.

Hot meals, showers, supplies, and mobile pharmacies

During disasters, H-E-B's Disaster Relief Units are deployed to areas where they can provide the most support. These units are staffed by trained H-E-B employees who are eager to lend a helping hand and provide support to their fellow Texans. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges that arise during disasters, these employees work tirelessly to ensure that the needs of affected communities are met.

By offering hot meals, showers, supplies, and mobile pharmacies, H-E-B's Disaster Relief Units are able to provide immediate relief to individuals and families who may have lost their homes or access to basic necessities. These services not only address the immediate physical needs of those affected but also offer a sense of comfort and support during difficult times.

H-E-B's Disaster Relief Units have responded to numerous natural disasters over the years, including hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. Their commitment to supporting Texas communities during times of crisis has made them a trusted source of aid and support.

In conclusion, H-E-B's Disaster Relief Units are an essential part of the company's emergency response efforts. By providing hot meals, showers, supplies, and mobile pharmacies, these units bring immediate relief to impacted communities. H-E-B's commitment to serving its community during times of crisis is evident in their proactive approach to disaster preparedness and response. Their dedication sets an example for other businesses and organizations, highlighting the importance of being prepared and ready to lend a helping hand when disaster strikes.

H-E-B's Financial Support

Demonstration of H-E-B's commitment through financial aid

In addition to its emergency preparedness efforts, H-E-B demonstrates its commitment to supporting communities in crisis through financial aid. The company understands that during times of emergencies, many individuals and families may face financial hardships. To help alleviate some of the burden, H-E-B provides financial support to those in need.

H-E-B's financial aid initiatives focus on assisting both its employees and the wider community. The company offers various programs and resources to support its employees during emergencies, such as providing financial assistance for medical expenses or offering temporary housing options. This helps ensure that employees can focus on their well-being and recovery without the added stress of financial concerns.

Moreover, H-E-B extends its support beyond its employees and reaches out to the broader community. Through partnerships with local organizations and nonprofit entities, H-E-B allocates funds to assist with disaster relief and recovery efforts. This financial support helps communities rebuild and recover more effectively, ensuring that individuals and families have the necessary resources to overcome the challenges posed by emergencies.

Donations for communities in crisis and emergency supplies

In addition to providing financial aid, H-E-B also plays an active role in donating essential supplies during emergency events. The company recognizes the importance of meeting basic needs, such as food, water, and personal care items, during times of crisis. To address these needs, H-E-B donates emergency supplies to support affected communities.

H-E-B's donations are distributed through its extensive network of stores and distribution centers. The company collaborates with local authorities and relief organizations to identify areas in need and allocate resources accordingly. This ensures that donations are efficiently distributed to the areas that require them the most, reaching individuals and families who have been impacted by the emergency.

Furthermore, H-E-B actively engages with its customers and encourages them to join in supporting relief efforts. The company organizes campaigns and events that allow customers to contribute towards donations, either through monetary contributions or by donating essential items directly. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community and solidarity, empowering individuals to make a positive impact during times of crisis.

H-E-B's financial support and donations are a testament to the company's commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen. By providing both financial assistance and essential supplies, H-E-B shows its dedication to supporting communities in times of need. This commitment extends beyond the immediate response to emergencies, as the company works towards long-term recovery and restoration. Through these initiatives, H-E-B exemplifies the importance of collective efforts in building resilient and prepared communities.

In conclusion, H-E-B's financial support initiatives demonstrate the company's commitment to helping communities in crisis. By providing financial aid to employees and partnering with local organizations, H-E-B ensures that individuals and families receive the necessary support during emergencies. Additionally, through donations and engagement with customers, H-E-B actively contributes to relief efforts and helps meet the basic needs of affected communities. These efforts further solidify H-E-B's role as a model of emergency preparedness and community support.

The Cult of H-E-B

Recognition of H-E-B's reputation for good service and treating employees well

H-E-B's commitment to emergency preparedness and community support has earned it a dedicated following and a reputation for excellence. The company's emphasis on providing exceptional customer service and treating its employees well has ingrained it in the hearts of Texans and beyond.

Customers have come to rely on H-E-B not just for their grocery needs, but also for their unwavering commitment to being there for their communities during times of crisis. H-E-B's consistent efforts to ensure their stores remain operational and stocked with essential goods have made them a trusted source of support and resilience.

Furthermore, H-E-B's dedication to its employees' well-being sets it apart from other grocery chains. The company's financial aid programs and resources demonstrate a genuine concern for their employees' welfare, ensuring they have the support they need during emergencies. This commitment has resulted in a loyal workforce that understands and appreciates the value of H-E-B's investment in their lives.

Eater's assessment of H-E-B's positive impact

H-E-B's impact extends beyond its customers and employees. Food blog Eater has recognized the significant role H-E-B plays in disaster response and community support. The publication highlights the company's swift mobilization during emergencies, such as hurricanes and pandemics, and its ability to adapt and deliver critical services even in the face of adversity.

Eater praises H-E-B's focus on meeting basic needs by providing emergency supplies and supporting local relief efforts. The company's well-coordinated distribution network ensures that resources reach those who need them the most, expediting recovery and easing the burden on affected communities.

The article also commends H-E-B for its collaborative approach in engaging its customers and empowering them to contribute to relief efforts. By involving the community, H-E-B fosters a sense of shared responsibility and collective action, reinforcing the connection between the brand and its loyal customers.

In conclusion, H-E-B's exceptional service, commitment to its employees, and positive impact on communities have helped it establish a cult-like following and reputation for being a model of emergency preparedness. The company's financial support initiatives, donations, and collaborative efforts have proven its dedication to helping communities in crisis. As H-E-B continues to prioritize the well-being of its customers, employees, and surrounding communities, its legacy as a beloved grocery chain and trusted community partner will undoubtedly endure.

Unique Relief Units

Description of H-E-B's three mobile kitchens, Disaster Relief Unit, and two water tankers

H-E-B's commitment to emergency preparedness is exemplified through its unique relief units that are strategically placed throughout Texas. These units play a crucial role in providing essential services and resources during times of crisis.

The company operates three mobile kitchens, known as "Mobilized Meal" units, which are equipped to prepare and serve hot meals to thousands of people affected by disasters. These kitchens are fully self-contained and have the capability to cook and distribute meals on-site, ensuring that affected communities have access to nutritious food during challenging times.

H-E-B also has a Disaster Relief Unit (DRU), a specially designed truck that serves as a mobile command center and emergency operations hub. This unit is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and communication systems, allowing H-E-B to coordinate relief efforts more efficiently. The DRU acts as a central point for planning and coordinating resources, enabling H-E-B to respond effectively and provide timely assistance to affected areas.

Furthermore, H-E-B recognizes the importance of access to clean drinking water during emergencies. To address this need, the company has two water tankers that can transport and distribute potable water to areas where the water supply has been compromised. These tankers can provide a crucial lifeline to communities without access to safe drinking water, ensuring that their basic needs are met during times of crisis.

Other services and assistance provided during disaster relief efforts

In addition to the unique relief units, H-E-B offers several other services and forms of assistance to support disaster relief efforts. These include:

1. Pharmacy services: H-E-B understands the importance of uninterrupted access to medications during emergencies. The company ensures that its pharmacies stay operational, providing prescription medications and over-the-counter products to those in need. This ensures that individuals can continue to receive necessary medical care and resources even amidst a crisis.

2. Mobile ATMs: Recognizing the importance of access to cash, particularly during times when banking systems may be disrupted, H-E-B deploys mobile ATMs to affected areas. These ATMs provide a convenient and secure way for individuals to access cash and meet their immediate financial needs.

3. Community outreach: H-E-B actively engages with local communities to assess their needs and provide targeted support. This includes collaborating with local officials and organizations to identify areas that require assistance and allocate necessary resources. H-E-B also organizes community events and initiatives to promote resilience and unity in the face of emergencies.

4. Employee support: H-E-B understands that its employees are vital to its ability to respond to emergencies. The company provides comprehensive training programs and resources to prepare employees for crisis situations. It also offers support services, such as counseling and employee assistance programs, to ensure the well-being of its workforce during and after emergencies.

Through its unique relief units and comprehensive support services, H-E-B has evolved into a model of emergency preparedness. The company's commitment to providing essential services, resources, and assistance during times of crisis showcases its dedication to supporting communities in need. H-E-B's efforts go beyond typical disaster response, as they focus on long-term recovery and resilience building. By prioritizing the well-being of its employees and the affected communities, H-E-B continues to exemplify the importance of preparation and collective action in times of emergency.

Collaboration with Government

The government's role in deploying help for clean-up and disaster relief

In times of disaster, the government plays a critical role in coordinating and deploying resources to assist affected communities. From providing funding to organizing clean-up efforts, the government's involvement is essential in ensuring effective disaster relief.

Government agencies such as FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and local emergency management offices work tirelessly to assess the extent of the damage and identify areas in need of immediate assistance. They coordinate with various organizations, including H-E-B, to ensure a comprehensive response that addresses the needs of the affected population.

H-E-B's collaboration with government agencies for effective response

H-E-B recognizes the importance of collaborating with government agencies to ensure an efficient and effective response to disasters. The company actively engages with these agencies to understand their priorities and align their resources accordingly.

By working hand in hand with the government, H-E-B can leverage its unique relief units and extensive network to provide targeted assistance where it is most needed. This collaboration allows for better coordination of resources, avoiding duplication of efforts and ensuring that the assistance reaches the communities in a timely manner.

Additionally, H-E-B's collaboration with government agencies enables them to access crucial information and situational updates. This real-time information is vital for decision-making and planning, allowing H-E-B to adapt its response strategies based on the evolving needs of the affected areas.

By partnering with government agencies, H-E-B also benefits from access to additional resources and expertise. This collaboration enhances their capacity to provide comprehensive support and assistance during times of crisis.

The partnership between H-E-B and government agencies extends beyond immediate disaster response. Both parties collaborate on long-term recovery and resilience building efforts. This includes strategies to mitigate the impact of future disasters and support community development initiatives in disaster-prone areas.

Through their collaboration, H-E-B and government agencies demonstrate the power of public-private partnerships in disaster preparedness and response. The synergy between these entities allows for a more coordinated and effective approach to disaster relief, ensuring that the affected communities receive the support and resources they need to recover and rebuild.

In conclusion, H-E-B's collaboration with government agencies is a crucial component of their emergency preparedness and response efforts. By working together, they can combine resources, expertise, and knowledge to provide a comprehensive and targeted response to disasters. This collaboration showcases the importance of collective action and partnership in ensuring the well-being and resilience of communities in times of crisis.

Keeping Stores Open

Importance of keeping H-E-B stores open during disasters for community response and recovery

During times of crisis, one of the crucial roles H-E-B plays as an emergency responder is keeping its stores open. This commitment stems from the company's understanding of the essential role a functioning grocery store plays in supporting community response and recovery efforts. By keeping its stores operational, H-E-B ensures that affected communities have access to vital supplies and resources when they need them the most.

Critical role in providing essential supplies and support

H-E-B's ability to keep stores open during disasters allows the company to provide critical supplies to affected communities. When hurricanes, floods, or other emergencies strike, H-E-B stores become a lifeline for people who may have lost access to food, water, and other essential items. The company's extensive network of grocery stores ensures that even in the most challenging circumstances, individuals have a reliable source of necessary supplies to sustain themselves and their families.

Furthermore, H-E-B takes proactive measures to stock up on essential items before disasters strike to ensure that there is an ample supply available for customers. This strategic planning and coordination with its suppliers allow H-E-B to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies, minimizing the impact on the affected communities.

In addition to providing essential supplies, H-E-B stores also serve as hubs of support and assistance. The company understands that during times of crisis, people often seek a sense of normalcy and community. H-E-B stores become gathering places where individuals come together, not only to shop for necessities but also to find comfort, connection, and support from their neighbors and store employees.

H-E-B's commitment to keeping stores open during disasters goes beyond just providing supplies. The company ensures that its stores are safe and accessible, often working closely with local authorities to determine the best course of action. Even in challenging circumstances, such as power outages or infrastructure damage, H-E-B utilizes its fleet of mobile generators to keep stores running, ensuring that affected communities have access to the resources they need for recovery.

By keeping stores open and fully operational, H-E-B demonstrates its dedication to supporting communities during times of crisis. The company's ability to provide essential supplies and create a sense of normalcy amidst chaos is a testament to its long-standing commitment to serving the people of Texas. H-E-B's preparedness efforts, combined with its compassionate and responsive approach, make it a model of emergency preparedness and a trusted partner in disaster response and recovery.

In conclusion, H-E-B's commitment to emergency preparedness and its ability to keep stores open during disasters have positioned the company as a role model for regional and national emergency response. By leveraging its unique relief units, comprehensive support services, and dedication to meeting the needs of both employees and affected communities, H-E-B has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to providing crucial assistance during times of crisis. Through its proactive and strategic approach, H-E-B continues to set the standard for emergency preparedness and community support, ensuring the resilience and well-being of the people it serves.

Conclusion

Highlighting H-E-B's exceptional disaster relief efforts and commitment

Throughout its history and especially in the past decade, H-E-B has emerged as a model of emergency preparedness through its outstanding disaster relief efforts. The company's commitment to keeping its stores open during times of crisis showcases its understanding of the vital role a functioning grocery store plays in supporting community response and recovery. By providing essential supplies and resources, H-E-B becomes a lifeline for affected communities, ensuring that individuals have access to necessities when they need them the most.

Impact on the communities they serve and continuous dedication

H-E-B's preparedness efforts have had a significant impact on the communities it serves. By proactively stocking up on essential items and employing strategic planning, the company can respond quickly and effectively during emergencies, minimizing disruption to the affected communities. Furthermore, H-E-B's stores become not just places to shop but also hubs of support and connection during times of crisis, offering a sense of normalcy and comfort to those affected.

The company's dedication to keeping its stores safe and accessible is evident in its collaboration with local authorities and utilization of mobile generators during power outages or infrastructure damage. H-E-B's commitment to supporting communities during disasters goes beyond mere supply provision, demonstrating its sincere care for the well-being and recovery of the people it serves.

In conclusion, H-E-B's exceptional disaster relief efforts and commitment to the communities make it a trusted partner in emergency response and recovery. The company's ability to provide essential supplies, create a sense of normalcy, and ensure the well-being of affected individuals solidifies its position as a role model for regional and national emergency preparedness. By continuously prioritizing disaster response and leveraging its unique resources, H-E-B remains dedicated to serving the people of Texas and beyond in times of crisis.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Introduction In recent years, H-E-B, the beloved Texas grocery chain, has gained recognition for its exceptional disaster response and emergency preparedness efforts.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
A new $42M H-E-B breaks ground in North Texas. Here’s what you need to know

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A new H-E-B broke ground in Melissa, Texas last month. Construction to be completed by late April 2025.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
VANCOUVER Wash. (KPTV) - A man was arrested by Vancouver police on Sunday after several people called 911 and reported that he was threatening people with a samurai sword.

Police arrived after the man had entered a Walmart in the 400 block of SE 192nd Avenue.

Officers evacuated the store and found the man who eventually surrendered without injuring anyone.

Police said in addition to the sword, the man had a 5-inch knife in his pocket.

Ravi Saxena, 43, was booked on charges of Felony Harassment, Dangerous Weapon and Displaying a Weapon.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Man with samurai sword threatens people at Walmart in Vancouver

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A man was arrested by Vancouver police on Sunday after several people called 911 and reported that he was threatening people with a samurai sword.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
I had to get 2 Walmart receipts because of little-known self-checkout rule

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A WALMART shopper has revealed a little-known self-checkout policy that means customers have double the work and two receipts. Shoppers regularly take to social media platforms such as TikTok to ve…

# data[].attributes.headline
Walmart stock is gravitating to an all time high

# data[].attributes.subject
Walmart stock is gravitating to an all time high

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Walmart's (NYSE: WMT) stock is splitting. The world's largest retailer surprised investors on Tuesday by announcing a 3-for-1 stock split.

In recent years, stock splits have become associated with high-flying tech stocks like those in the "Magnificent Seven." Walmart's announcement is a reminder that stock splits can take place at any company at any time, even if the share price isn't exceptionally high. Walmart shares closed Wednesday at $165.25, approaching an all-time high.

The split will be the retailer's first since 1999, reflecting the fact that the stock has mostly struggled over the past 25 years. It fell behind Amazon and underperformed the S&P 500, even as the business has done well in recent years.

Walmart argued that the stock split was designed to encourage employees to purchase the stock. The company noted that more than 400,000 employees participate in the Associate Stock Purchase Plan. This allows employees to buy stocks through payroll deductions and benefit from a 15% match on the first $1,800 they contribute each year.

CEO Doug McMillon said of the decision: "Sam Walton believed it was important to keep our share price in a range where purchasing whole shares, rather than fractions, was accessible to all of our associates. Given our growth and our plans for the future, we felt it was a good time to split the stock and encourage our associates to participate in the years to come."

Walmart's stock will begin trading on a post-split basis on Feb. 26, and the split will increase shares outstanding from 2.7 million to 8.1 million.

What the stock split means for Walmart investors

Stock splits get a lot of attention in the media, especially when they happen at a big company like Walmart, but they don't affect the fundamentals of the business in any way. While it may look like the stock is getting cheaper, the overall business size remains the same, whether measured by earnings, cash flow, or revenue.

The stock split won't affect any of those valuation ratios. It will just split the proverbial pie of the company's stock into more pieces, but investors will own the same percentage of the business that they did before.

Nonetheless, there is some evidence that stock splits correlate with a stock's outperformance over the next year. This could be due to the momentum heading into the split as they typically come after substantial price gains or increased interest among investors. Walmart is clearly hoping that the move will encourage more buying among its employees, which could help push the stock higher.

Is Walmart stock a smart buy?

After being slow to embrace e-commerce in the early 2000s, Walmart has made significant strides in recent years, adding grocery-pickup stations at most of its stores and embracing the omnichannel retail model. It's begun building out its own third-party e-commerce marketplace to compete with Amazon.

In most of the recent quarters, it has posted faster e-commerce growth than Amazon. At the same time, its grocery business, which makes up more than half of its revenue, has been able to withstand inflation and the pressure that consumer discretionary retailers have felt.

In the third quarter, the company reported 5% comparable-sales growth, excluding fuel, and adjusted operating income rose 3% to $3.5 billion. It also raised its adjusted earnings-per-share guidance for the year to $6.40-$6.48.

Operationally, Walmart looks about as strong as it has in a long time, but there's a difference between a well-run business and a stock that's a good buy. At a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 26, Walmart's valuation is similar to the S&P 500's. At that price, investors are paying a lot for Walmart's modest growth prospects.

Walmart is a safe stock that has a long track record of raising its dividend, but investors should understand that that's what they're paying up for. For the right kind of investor, Walmart is a smart buy. It's a well-managed, dividend-paying recession-proof business. But if you're looking for growth or a stock that can beat the S&P 500 by a wide margin, there are better stocks to own.
Should you invest $1,000 in Walmart right now?
Before you buy stock in Walmart, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now... and Walmart wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.
*Stock Advisor returns as of January 29, 2024 John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Jeremy Bowman has positions in Amazon. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Walmart's Stock Is Gravitating Toward an All-Time-High: Could a Stock Split Make It a Magnificent Buy? was originally published by The Motley Fool

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Walmart's Stock Is Gravitating Toward an All-Time-High: Could a Stock Split Make It a Magnificent Buy?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Walmart surprised investors with a 3-for-1 stock split.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "@mrsdejasmith takes us along for one of her visits at our H-E-B Wellness Primary care!"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
351 likes, 5 comments - heb on February 1, 2024: "@mrsdejasmith takes us along for one of her visits at our H-E-B Wellness Primary care!"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
So, with plenty of national ads for Super Bowl LVIII expected to have celebrities, could H-E-B bring another to the mix?

"Our big game commercial is almost here, and you won't want to miss it," H-E-B said in the description of its 15-second teaser released last week, which shows a woman passing by in the fridge aisle, who backtracks her steps to give a double take at something in the neighboring aisle. The message, "you won't believe what we have in store" pops up on the screen as it transitions to black and shows Feb. 11, the date the ad is set to air.

Article continues below this ad

So, what's in store? Could it be a restaurant or more Texas-shaped products? Or could there be a cameo of a Texas celebrity?

The teaser doesn't have any easter eggs to go off. The song in the background is "I'm Still in Love with You" by David Sharp and the shopper has little in her cart aside from what appears to be a container of tea and some bread.

Standing out while a slew of other companies are releasing some kind of new commercial or promotion for the big game, such as American Airlines' Taylor Swift-themed flights, can be a challenge. And unlike past years' H-E-B ads, which featured settings such as a spaceport that seemed SpaceX-like or someone at airport security attempting to sneak butter tortillas on the plane, this year's ad appears to be inside a store.

Article continues below this ad

But for a regional ad mixed in with nationwide spots estimated to cost about $7 million for a 30-second spot, it's still likely to leave an impression.

Last year's commercial was a crowd-pleaser involving the work of H-E-B's marketing team and Dallas-based agency Plot Twist Creativity, which has worked with the grocer on campaigns emphasizing low prices and Central Market's Hatch Fest. The ads also appeared during the game's first and second quarters, then again in the third and fourth quarters, in more than a dozen key Texas markets. They also marked H-E-B's Dallas-Fort Worth broadcast debut as the grocer prepared for expansion in North Texas.

So when the mystery near the fridge aisle is revealed this Sunday, it'll likely be something light and fun, in an attempt to boost loyalty among longtime Texans and introduce the hundreds of thousands of new residents to the grocer.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What's hidden offscreen for H-E-B's Super Bowl ad?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Texas grocer has a robust marketing team that's previously done ads with top athletes and celebrities such as George Strait.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Kenneth Stanley | Stanley Injury Law

HOUSTON - A woman is seeking up to $1 million in damages from H-E-B for injuries she allegedly received after tripping on a rug two years ago.

Alleging negligence, Wendy Winands filed her suit Feb. 5, 2024, in Harris County District Court.

According to the lawsuit, on Feb. 5, 2022, Winands was at an H-E-B in Kingwood shopping. She was attempting to round a corner when her foot got caught underneath a rug that was not properly placed on the floor, causing her to fall.

Winands is suing her for medical expenses, pain, impairment, disfigurement and lost wages.

Houston attorney Kenneth Stanley represents her.

Case No. 2024-07657

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Woman sues H-E-B claiming she tripped on rug

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
HOUSTON - A woman is seeking up to $1 million in damages from H-E-B for injuries she allegedly received after tripping on a rug two years ago.

# data[].attributes.headline
H-E-B is chamber's Business of the Month

# data[].attributes.subject
H-E-B is chamber's Business of the Month

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Mexia Area Chamber of Commerce has named HEB of Mexia as Business of the Month for February. HEB is ...

PLEASE LOG IN FOR PREMIUM CONTENT. Our website requires visitors to log in to view the best local news. Not yet a subscriber? Subscribe today!

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Rappers Snoop Dogg and Master P are going after Walmart, accusing the retail giant of breaching a deal and keeping the pair's breakfast cereals off the shelves in stores all across the country.

"How come all these knockoff brands are successful and we don't have a chance?" asked Master P, whose legal name is Percy Miller.

Miller and Calvin Broadus, known by most as Snoop Dogg, formed Broadus Foods, which produces several flavors of Snoop Cereal, in 2022. The two have hired prominent civil rights attorney Ben Crump and filed a lawsuit against Walmart and Post Foods, accusing the two companies of "deceptive trade practices."

"This was collusion, breach of contract and fraud," said Crump at a Los Angeles news conference Tuesday. "A pattern and practice from coast to coast."

At the press event, Crump played a video he says shows shoppers in at least 20 Walmart stores across the U.S. searching for Snoop Cereal but failing to find any.

The video also shows unidentified Walmart workers showing the shoppers still sealed shipping boxes in the store room, saying Walmart never assigned the products a "location" in the store.

"They kept them back in the stock room!" Crump decried. "Where people who wanted affordable, nutritious cereal could not find them."

Walmart and Post both declined our interview requests, instead releasing written statements.

A Walmart spokesperson wrote:
"Walmart values our relationships with our suppliers, and we have a strong history of supporting entrepreneurs. Many factors affect the sales of any given product, including consumer demand, seasonality, and price to name a few. We will respond as appropriate with the Court once we are served with the complaint."
A spokesperson for Post said:
"Post Consumer Brands was excited to partner with Broadus Foods and we made substantial investments in the business. We were equally disappointed that consumer demand did not meet expectations. In a news release, Crump said Broadus Foods was created to "inspire economic empowerment among minorities and contribute to charitable causes addressing hunger and homelessness."
Miller and Crump say they hope the lawsuit will also prevent other major corporations from robbing Black-owned businesses of the opportunities to create generational wealth.

"This is about minority-owned companies getting a fair share, and me and Snoop is going to be that force," said Miller.

Crump pitched the same theme.

"Give black-owned businesses a genuine chance to succeed and build the intergenerational wealth promised by the American dream."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Snoop Dogg, Master P sue Walmart, claiming company intentionally kept Snoop Cereal off shelves

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Rappers Snoop Dogg and Master P are going after Walmart, accusing the retail giant of breaching a deal and keeping the pair's breakfast cereals off the shelves in stores all across the country.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Tomatoes grown in the Chinese region of Xinjiang have been banned in the U.S. since January 2021 due to concerns they may have been produced with Uyghur forced labor.

American shoppers at Amazon, Walmart, Etsy and grocery delivery apps Instacart and Uber Eats may have unwittingly bought canned tomatoes and pastes produced by Uyghur forced laborers in China's far west region of Xinjiang, which are banned by the U.S. government, according to a Forbes review of product listings.

Tomatoes and cotton grown in the region were banned by the U.S. government starting in January 2021, and a new law barring all goods from Xinjiang kicked in from June 2022. The bans are a reaction to mass detention centers in the region, where Human Rights Watch say up to half a million people from the region's mostly Muslim minority group have been detained and forced to labor in farms and factories.

Since the 2022 ban was imposed under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, U.S. officials have seized more than $2.2 billion of goods at American ports they believed were produced by Uyghur forced labor. Despite this, Forbes found examples of canned tomatoes and pastes from Chinese companies with links to Xinjiang on sale with major online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Etsy, and via online grocery delivery apps Instacart and Uber Eats using data from Israeli startup Ultra Information Solution's digital vetting platform Publican.

"Chinese importers are still able to easily bypass the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act enforcement," Ultra's cofounder Ram Ben Tzion told Forbes. "Forced labor products are still widely available in the U.S. market."

Tomato brands Nina, Gino, and Zehrat Safa, which have been stocked by third-party sellers operating on Amazon, Walmart and Etsy's marketplaces, are produced by the Chinese company Hebei Tomato Industry. The food processor, which is based around 200 miles southwest of China's capital Beijing, states on its website that "raw materials come from Xinjiang'' and boasts of the region's sunshine and climate. Hebei Tomato did not respond to a comment request by press time.

Amazon spokesperson Jennifer Flag said the company complies with the law and that "whenever we find or receive proof of forced labor, we take action and remove that product and may suspend privileges to sell." Some of the product listings of the banned tomatoes were still live as of publication. Etsy declined to comment but the listings identified by Forbes were taken down. Instacart also declined to comment. Uber spokesperson Caspar Nixon said its sellers are prohibited from "requesting delivery of restricted items as defined under applicable local laws." Walmart did not respond to a comment request.

"The only reason for this to take place would be cost."

Bruce Rominger, chairman of the California Tomato Growers Association

Tomatoes harvested in Xinjiang also appear to be slipping into the supply chain of other American food companies and retailers.

Miami, Florida-based food importer Golden Seed accepted two shipments of tomato paste from Hebei Tomato Industry following the U.S. government ban on Xinjiang products, according to U.S. customs records. Golden Seed's tomato products were listed on Instacart. Golden Seed manager Miguel Cordo said via email that it "always complies with U.S. laws."

Latino food company Goya Foods' Puerto Rico arm also accepted a shipment of tomato paste in November 2023 from a subsidiary of Xinjiang Chalkis, according to U.S. customs records. This Shenzhen-listed agricultural producer was spunout from the Chinese state-owned Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, which is still a major shareholder. XPCC, a sprawling paramilitary organization created in 1954 to develop Xinjiang's economy, was sanctioned by the United States in 2020 for alleged human rights abuses. Neither Xinjiang Chalkis or its California-based subsidiary American Chalkis have been sanctioned.

Goya Foods spokesperson Natalie Maniscalco provided additional documents confirming the shipment, which showed it had been detained by U.S. customs and then released when it was determined it was not "forced labor product," she said. American Chalkis CEO Peng He said in an email post publication that he had bought out Xinjiang Chalkis' stake in 2018.

The CBP declined to comment.

Human rights groups have alleged that up to one million people from China's Uyghur, Kazakh and Kyrgyz minority communities have been detained in "re-education camps" in a move condemned by the U.S. and several other countries as amounting to genocide. China has repeatedly denied human rights abuses but claimed that sprawling high security camps in Xinjiang provide vocational training and were part of its counter-terrorism program.

The Trump and Biden Administrations have taken a series of measures to ramp up pressure on China over its policies in Xinjiang. The Magnitsky Act was used to sanction Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps in July 2020, followed by a ban on the import of cotton, tomato and polysilicon products from the region in June 2021.

President Joe Biden signed the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act into law in December 2021. This act took a harder line than the earlier orders, and Treasury sanctions, by putting the onus on importers to prove that any product from the Xinjiang region had no ties to forced labor. "If you're a company who is manufacturing in that area, you're going to need to prove that slaves didn't make it. The presumption is on you," Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who was one of the co-authors of the bill, said in 2021.

American lawmakers from the bipartisan House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party last month called on the Biden Administration to step up its enforcement of the law. The Wall Street Journal reported that the senators and representatives called for a crackdown on the de minimis trade loophole, which allows small packages to skirt customs control, and criminal prosecutions for those profiting from Uyghur forced labor.

"This example of tomato products linked to Uyghur forced labor still finding their way onto shelves in American stores is simply unacceptable and underscores the importance of our committee's efforts to significantly strengthen the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act," Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) said in a statement to Forbes.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection data shows that the majority of the goods seized under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act have been electronics and cotton-based clothing and textiles. Agricultural imports like tomatoes represented only 1% of the $2.2 billion Xinjiang-produced goods seized by CBP since 2022, and even before the ban the scale of Chinese tomato imports to the United States were small. The U.S. is a major tomato exporter, though Chinese tomato paste costs around 70% less than California-grown products, according to industry website Tomato News.

"The only reason for this to take place would be cost," said Bruce Rominger, chairman of the California Tomato Growers Association. "California has some of the most stringent environmental, food safety, labor laws and wages in the United States with these standards do come costs."

That goods and materials from Xinjiang are continuing to slip into the United States shouldn't be a surprise. Around 20% of the world's cotton is produced in China, with the vast majority grown in Xinjiang. Reuters reported in September that CBP found traces of Xinjiang cotton on 15% of cotton clothing examined by the agency using isotopic testing between December 2022 and May 2023.

MORE FROM FORBES

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The U.S. Banned Xinjiang Tomatoes Over Forced Labor Fears. Amazon And Walmart Still Sell Them

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Tomatoes grown in the Chinese region of Xinjiang have been banned in the U.S. since January 2021 due to concerns they may have been produced with Uyghur forced labor.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Lexi Diaz

# data[].attributes.body
Lexi Diaz

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "Get ready to be swept off your feet! New H-E-B commercial is dropping soon!"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
1,668 likes, 19 comments - heb on February 8, 2024: "Get ready to be swept off your feet! New H-E-B commercial is dropping soon!"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.body
Live viewing of the AD

Lexi Diaz

# data[].attributes.body
Lexi Diaz

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "It's not you, it's H-E-B 😉. Here, every aisle is a chance to fall in love."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
547 likes, 30 comments - heb on February 11, 2024: "It's not you, it's H-E-B 😉. Here, every aisle is a chance to fall in love."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "It's not you, it's H-E-B 😉. Here, every aisle is a chance to fall in love."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
919 likes, 48 comments - heb on February 11, 2024: "It's not you, it's H-E-B 😉. Here, every aisle is a chance to fall in love."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Centers For Disease Control (CDC) issued a report this week warning consumers of tainted cheese and dressing products that have caused illnesses for 26 people across the country, killing two. The recalled items previously sold at H-E-B are:

Don Pancho Cilantro Lime Crema Twin Pack

Don Pancho Everything Sauce Fiesta 3 Pack

Don Pancho Chicken Street Taco Express Meal Kit

H-E-B Poblano Caesar Dressing

H-E-B Cilantro Cotija Dressing

Article continues below this ad

Other notable grocers issuing recalls include Trader Joe's, which has taken its Chicken Enchiladas Verde, Cilantro Salad Dressing, Elote Chopped Salad Kiot and Southwest Salad off shelves in response to the CDC warning.

At the center of the outbreak is Rizo-López Foods, a California-based company that has voluntarily recalled 58 products, including queso fresco, cotija cheese, yogurt and sour cream. Rizo-López products are sold under different names at many local and national grocers, including Costco and Amazon's 365 Whole Foods Market. Eleven states have reported instances of suspected listeria infections, with Texas reporting two such suspected infections.

The current resurgence of listeria can be traced as far back as 2014, when the CDC began investigating reports of illnesses involving people who ate potentially tainted products. Listeria is a serious infection typically caused by eating food contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. An estimated 1,600 people are infected with listeria annually, resulting in roughly 260 deaths, according to the CDC. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches and fatigue, as well as headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and seizures.

As for H-E-B, the company confirmed its voluntary recall of products in a message to consumers this week. The grocer says no customers have come forward with complaints yet. "Fresh Creative Foods, a division of Reser's Fine Foods, Inc., is voluntarily recalling certain cremas, everything sauces, cilantro cotija dressing, poblano Caesar dressing, cilantro dressing and one taco kit due to the risk of Listeria monocytogenes in a cheese ingredient supplied by RIZO-LÓPEZ FOODS, INC," the company noted in a statement.

Article continues below this ad

"...Consumers are urged not to consume these products," the statement continued. "Consumers who purchased these products may take them back to the store for a refund or discard them."

In June of 2023 the CDC issued warnings to consumers after an investigation into a multistate listeria outbreak linked 19 infections to the consumption of tainted leafy greens, including iceberg and romaine lettuces.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
don pancho cilantro lime crema twin pack

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B recalls cheesy products in response to deadly listeria outbreak

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Texas-based grocer was just one of a number of chain stores taking items off shelves after 26 people came down with listeria linked to dairy products.

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
KATY, TX (Covering Katy News) - The highly anticipated opening of the HEB grocery store on Morton Ranch Road across from Katy Park happens Wednesday, February 21, 2024. The store is at the corner of Morton Ranch Road near Katy Hockley Cutoff Road.

The store will have a drive-through pharmacy, gasoline pumps, and a car wash. The plaza will be called The Market at Katy Park. There will be five additional buildings on the property which will have space for 19 retailers. Currently, the list of tenants include:
Also Read: Road improvements coming to Morton Ranch Road near new HEB

Pacific Dental

Longhorn Liquor

An Optometrist

Sports Clips

Venetian Nail Spa

Crust Pizza

Postal Plus

Go Health

Also read: Large apartment development to locate next to Katy Park HEB
McDonald's and Chase Bank will also be part of the development. They will locate in stand-alone buildings along the Morton Ranch Road side of the property, near the entrance to Katy Park.

HEB employment opportunities can be found at Careers.HEB.com

Being across the street from Katy Park increases the property's value for retailers. According to the developer, the 100-acre Katy Park, operated by Harris County, attracts more than 700,000 visitors annually for its 24 baseball and soccer fields used by numerous youth sports leagues in the Katy, West Houston area.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
HEB announces opening date for Katy Park store

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The store is at the corner of Morton Ranch Road near Katy Hockley Cutoff Road. The store will have a drive-through pharmacy, gasoline pumps, and a car wash.

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Woman arrested in connection to $1,300 skincare thefts at North Austin H-E-B store | KEYE

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A woman was arrested in connection to four skincare robberies totaling over $1,300 at a North Austin H-E-B grocery store in November 2023.Online court records s

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The latest H-E-B Fresh Bites store opened its doors Wednesday in Floresville as the grocery chain rebrands its line of convenience centers.

H-E-B announced in April that convenience store locations in San Antonio and surrounding cities would be revamped into "H-E-B Fresh Bites," designed to offer healthier on-the-go food options.

Instead of snacking on chips and candy, customers can grab produce, salads, sandwiches, sushi and juices to go.

Article continues below this ad

Many of the locations, including the Floresville Fresh Bites, will be home to H-E-B's Tex-Mex chain, True Texas Tacos.

And like a classic convenience store, Fresh Bites locations will include gas stations and carwashes.

The Floresville Fresh Bites is open from 4 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday and 4 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday into early Saturday and Saturday into early Sunday.True Texas Tacos is open 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

H-E-B Fresh Bites stores are also open in Lytle, Hutto and Leander.

Article continues below this ad

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B opens newest Fresh Bites convenience store in Floresville with True Texas Tacos

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The San Antonio-based grocery chain is rebranding its line of convenience stores, many of which will feature True Texas Tacos.

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Inflation is cooling overall, but food prices have been more stubborn.

To combat high prices, some people are seeking out the best deals at different stores.

I went to three stores to see where I could find the best prices for my family of four.

While inflation has come down quite a bit since its peak in June 2022, one place where Americans are still being hit hard is at the grocery store.

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said food prices had not recovered in 2023 as much as other areas, during an interview with CNBC's "Squawk on the Street" on December 6.

"We are down in pricing in the general merchandising categories, meaning non-food categories, about 5% now," said McMillon when discussing pricing at his stores compared to 2022. "But the dry goods and consumables categories, processed food, had quite a bit of stubborn inflation in it for a period of time."

At home, I do the grocery shopping for a family of four, and like many others, the current economy has turned it into something that can be both stressful and a bit of a game. Finding the best deals is a constant battle, often taking me to multiple stores.

And even when things are on sale, it is not always easy to know when you are getting a good deal.

To determine where the best prices can be found, I went to three large but different stores selling groceries in December: Walmart, a big box store; Costco, a warehouse club; and HEB, a large grocery chain in Texas.

I compared the prices of 13 everyday items at each of the stores. While I paid more at Costco because of the bulk and limited choices in quantity, on a per-unit basis, it was the best deal overall, costing about $65.

Meanwhile, HEB and Walmart were nearly identical, at about $73, and several items were priced precisely the same. It was surprising because I generally viewed Walmart as a cheaper option but also disappointing because they have far fewer options in the various categories.

Here's how some of the grocery prices compare at the three stores.

Walmart Costco Inflation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
I compared grocery prices at Costco, Walmart, and HEB for a family of 4. I was shocked Walmart wasn't a better bargain.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
I do the grocery shopping for a family of four, and like many others, the current economy has turned it into something that can be both stressful and a bit of a game.

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B South Congress on target to open this year

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The timeline update comes as expands its Central Texas footprint.

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
See store details for the new Fair Oaks store at 29388 I-10 West in Boerne, TX including curbside, job openings, store hours, pharmacy hours and more.

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When it comes to grocery shopping, consumers say they prefer Costco over major grocery chains like Trader Joe's or Whole Foods, according to an American Customer Satisfaction Index report.

The annual rating, released last month, revealed that Costco held the highest ranking in a list that included 19 other major grocery store chains across the U.S. On a satisfaction scale from 1-100, Costco earned 85 points, narrowly topping California-based grocery store Trader Joe's (84 points) and Whole Foods (82 points).

Scores were based on 40,264 interviews with customers who were chosen at random and responded via email, according to ACSI. The agency asked people to evaluate their experience with the grocery chains from January to December 2023 in various categories including the convenience of store locations, store layouts, and prices.

Article continues below this ad

"Its popularity has been bolstered by the lower cost/prices of the warehouse store model and the greater perceived value of the store through quantity discounts," Forrest Morgeson, an assistant professor of marketing at Michigan State University and director of research emeritus at ACSI, told SFGATE in a statement. "During a time of high inflation and surging prices, consumers saw those features as even more desirable than in normal economic times."

ACSI also found that customers gravitate towards Costco for its signature Kirkland Signature goods, which make it stand apart from other big chain markets.

"Costco's Kirkland Signature is considered 'cool' and has become one of the main reasons people go to the store these days," ACSI wrote in a press release. "There are even TikTok and Instagram accounts dedicated to identifying the best of these products."

Article continues below this ad

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
This store tops Trader Joe's, Whole Foods in best of grocery ranking

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Costco Wholesale is considered the best grocery store in the U.S. for 2024, according to an annual ranking by the American Customer Satisfaction Index.

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A custom cake a Texas mom ordered from San Antonio-based grocer H-E-B ended up with such a colossal fail that her TikTok video about the experience went viral, racking up 10.5 million views.

TikTok user babygirlsoso ordered a cake from an H-E-B bakery decorated to look like a Minion character from the animated movie Despicable Me. According to the clip posted three days ago, she requested that it be topped with yellow icing and a Minion's trademark goggles with blue icing around the bottom.

In the video, babygirlsoso shows off the cake she received instead. There were no goggles, the eyes were added to the cake's side, and the yellow and blue icing mingled together, creating a green stripe around the middle.

"This is the ugliest fucking thing ever," babygirlsoso says in the clip.

@babygirls0s0 HEB explain yourself ! #failedcake #fail #HEB #fyp ♬ original sound - bbygir1soso

In the TikTok, she asks H-E-B to explain itself. However, after holding back a smile, she admits the botched job isn't that big a deal.

"It's totally fixable, and I'm not that picky," she adds.

Naturally, keyboard jockeys added their own commentary about the cake..

"Wait. Are you sure you ordered it from HEB and not Wish???," TikTok user tc0914 asked.

"Ma'am why are you asking where your swirls are at! Where the hell is the minion cake? would be my question! 😄," user ovowley said.

"At first I was like "she's probably just exaggerating." No girl, they did you dirty!! 🤣🤣🤣," user kellz9978 piled on.

In the end, babygirlsoso was able to salvage the job by using a cupcake topper in the shape of Minion goggles and adding a blue ribbon to cover up the green stripe. She shows off the fix-up job in a later video. So far, that update clip has drawn more than a million views.

@babygirls0s0 Replying to @Beccachka #greenscreen It turned out pretty cute 🤷🏼‍♀️🫶🏽 #failedcake #cakefail #fail #HEB #fypシ #foryoupage ♬ original sound - bbygir1soso

After the first clip went viral, H-E-B responded to babygirlsoso's complaint, asking her to send a private message about her experience.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Texas mom's video complaining about botched H-E-B cake goes viral

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The video racked up 10.5 million views, and H-E-B reached out to the woman.

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
H-E-B is searching for the best Texas-made products by offering their creators a chance to win as much as $25,000 and be featured on shelves across the state..

The Texas grocery staple has discovered more than 1,000 unique products and awarded nearly $2.5 million in prize money to product developers in its Quest for Texas Best competition during the past decade, according to a news release.

Article continues below this ad

The competition has supported products such as cookies, coffee, pickles, pho, salsas, beauty items, toys, home goods, gardening supplies and more.

H-E-B will orchestrate a panel of judges to determine the top four winning products this year and award $25,000, the "Texas Best" title and placement on store shelves to the grand prize winner; $20,000 for the first-place; $15,000 for second-place and $10,000 to the third-place winner.

Submissions will be accepted from Feb. 21 through 5 p.m. April 4.

Qualified participants have the opportunity to meet with H-E-B Sourcing and Supplier Diversity leaders about product development and best practices for submitting their product during special virtual informations on March 6, 13, 21 and 27.

Article continues below this ad

H-E-B's Business Development Managers will select the top applicants who will present their products to judges late this summer in Dallas, per a news release.

To reserve your informational meeting space, review competition details and requirements, visit heb.com/quest.

"We look forward to connecting with Texas-based innovators each and every year and providing exciting opportunities through this competition," said James Harris, H-E-B's Senior Director of Diversity & Inclusion and Supplier Diversity. "I can't wait to see what products are brought to the table this year."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B offers $25K cash for first place in annual 'Texas Best' competition

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Texas-based grocery staple is offering $70,000 to businesses in its annual product competition.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
(NEXSTAR) - If there's one place Texans love, it's their H-E-B. But have you ever paid close attention to the music playing while you shop? According to some H-E-B employees online, there's one song you're likely to hear now and again.

On Tuesday evening, an H-E-B employee, also known as "Partners," posted in the HEB subreddit: "If I hear 'Mambo No. 5 again.... I'm going to pull the fire alarm."
Taylor Swift gives $100,000 to the family of the woman killed in the Chiefs parade shooting
In case you're unfamiliar, that song would be the 1999 hit single " Mambo No. 5 (A Little Bit Of...)" by German singer . The song, which hit no. 3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in August '99, is a mambo-jazz-style song featuring pop production and lyrics, the latter of which detail Bega's various exploits with several women - Monica, Erica, Rita, Tina, Sandra, Mary and Jessica, to name a few.

The post was upvoted many times - which led us to wonder: How common is hearing Lou Bega's 1999 iconic hit inside an H-E-B? Even though stores generally pick their own music stations, was there a common song across these stores?

Scrubbing through Reddit, TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), we found several instances of H-E-B partners or customers noting the song's omnipresence inside an H-E-B store. One thread in the H-E-B subreddit from eight months ago asked: "What is one song that constantly comes on in the store that you are annoyed with?"

"Mambo No. 5 definitely," one Redditor said in a reply with 70 upvotes. Further down the list, someone else commented "A little bit of Rita by my side," a lyric from the song's chorus. "Ladies and gentlemen, this is Mambo Number Five..." someone else commented.

"I swear to God when I used to open for the produce department at 5 a.m., the playlist would be exactly the same every time... 'Mambo No. 5' would play at like exactly 5:10 a.m. [The song] legit gives me PTSD flashbacks."

Elsewhere, the song was mentioned as one people wish H-E-B would remove from their song list, a song that one partner says helps her get through 5 a.m. shifts, and even is some people's favorite song that plays at their store.

"I'm sure as the day rolls on and people see this post and comment, it will be the ONLY option," wrote one Redditor a few months ago. "Lou Bega 'Mambo No. 5.' My mom had this on CD and would jam it in the family PT Cruiser all the time." If that sentence makes any sense to you, take your vitamins and drink some water.
'Jeopardy!' has had 5 official hosts: Can you name them?
Meanwhile, over on X, there were several instances of the song at H-E-B, but none more charming than this Texan's musing: "Not only did 'Mambo No. 5' start playing as soon as I turned down the ice cream aisle, there was also a coupon for 50 cents off my favorite pint. I wholly believe that no store does more than MY H-E-B."

Nexstar reached out to Lou Bega's team for a comment on the enduring legacy of his signature song but haven't heard back. Back in 2019, Bega told Vanity Fair that he understood why the song remains popular, saying that in addition to being "joyful," the song is about repentance for being a player.

"We all enjoy ourselves. We have our hangovers and we know it's not really good for us. That song is speaking about it - but in such a cool way that you don't feel blamed for it."

Other repeat offenders

While Bega's song was among the most-mentioned in our research, there were a few other tracks that popped up as ones H-E-B employees and customers say they hear frequently in their stores.

So Texas, what's the song you love - or hate - to hear at your H-E-B?
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B employees say this song is played too much at their stores

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
There's "a little bit" too much of this song at some H-E-B stores, according to some H-E-B employees online.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
It was a month ago that Blues on the Green was canceled this year due to rising costs and growing crowds.

During an Austin City Council meeting on Tuesday, Austin musicians voiced their concern for losing the event.

"It's been here for 30+ years so I feel like you can't take that away," said one community member.

But on Friday, Austin City Limits Radio announced that one of the city's most beloved traditions lives on.

Austin City Council approved Resolution 23 to secure the event for another year, and with increased funding from H-E-B, Austin musicians are celebrating the return of Blues on the Green.

"When we heard that Blues on the Green was at risk, we felt like it was partly our duty to step up," said H-E-B Director of Public Affairs for Central Texas, Heidi Anderson.

"What we're learning is that our our partners in the nonprofit world and events that we sponsor, are all struggling with increasing costs and that's what Blues on the Green was facing," said Anderson.

She added, "[Blues on the Green] just needed the community to rally behind them, and really bring some additional support to them to get them through this season, and back to a place where they are sustainable and secure."

Austin Texas Musicians said this is a win for the music community.
ALSO| Resolution supporting live music concert series, Blues on the Green, passes

"Blues on the Green is a huge stage. It's such a well-loved festival. So it's an incredible opportunity for any artist who gets to play there, especially local artists who get to expand their audience," said Sarah Hall, Advocacy and Education Manager with Austin Texas Musicians.

CEO of Austin Texas Musicians, Patrick Buchta added, "We serve about 6,000 Central Texas musicians and when we got the news the Blues on the Green had been canceled, there was an outpouring of disappointment from the community."

The organization added, that although they're celebrating the return of the free music series, there's still more work to be done.

"But honestly, Blues on the Green is not the biggest issue in our music community right now," said Buchta, "it's the biggest headline, but there's a lot of other issues that we wanted to bring forward to Council with this moment."

Buchta and Hall said increased funding, preservation, and safety efforts for local musicians are among some things they hope the Council will pursue in order to keep supporting area musicians.

This is a sentiment Councilwoman Natasha Harper-Madison can get behind. Harper-Madison was a sponsor for Resolution 23, the item that the Austin City Council passed to keep Blues on the Green alive.

Her full statement to CBS Austin reads, "I am thrilled to see the excitement surrounding the return of 'Blues on the Green.' I would like to thank my co-sponsors and colleagues on the City Council for their support in unanimously passing a resolution that included direction for the city to explore co-sponsorship of the annual free and open-to-the-public concert series, currently known as 'Blues on the Green'."

The statement continues, "This community event is one I have personally cherished growing up in Austin and one I have always deeply enjoyed with my family. The conversation doesn't stop here, this is just the beginning. There is a lot of support and momentum behind the return of 'Blues on the Green' and we should take that energy and rally behind our entire live music community. It will take active participation and creativity from all of us in the Austin community to protect and sustain our 'uniquely Austin' diverse and vibrant live music culture and traditions."

Austin Texas Musicians said they hope the next step for Blues on the Green should be considering the sale of alcohol at the event.

Councilman Ryan Alter, during this week's City Council meeting, mentioned the idea, which Austin Texas Musicians said is worth exploring to generate revenue for the concert series.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Blues on the Green lives on from the help of Austin City Council and HEB

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
It was a month ago that Blues on the Green was canceled this year due to rising costs and growing crowds. During an Austin City Council meeting on Tuesday, Aust

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 KUT News on Instagram: "Blues on the Green, Austin’s free annual concert series at Zilker Park, is back on this year.

Austin City Limits Radio said on Friday that Blues on the Green would continue thanks to increased funding from @heb and Austin City Council’s recent resolution to support the summer event.

Last month, ACL Radio had said the concert series was canceled for this year because of rising costs. This prompted council members into action. The council’s resolution, which was passed Thursday, directed city staff to look into ways to financially support Blues on the Green and other low-cost cultural events in the city. Council Member Natasha Harper-Madison (@cm_harpermadison) said she hoped the city would eventually become a co-sponsor for the concert series.

“We’re thrilled that the people of Austin, the City, H-E-B and the countless other sponsors agree that Blues on the Green is an essential bit of what makes Austin the Live Music Capital of The World,” said @aclradio Program Director Lynn Barstow in a press release. “We are so grateful to be able to continue this great, 30+ year tradition. See you in the park this summer!”

Dates for this summer’s shows have yet to be announced.

Words: Chelsey Zhu
Photo: Gabriel C Pérez"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
3,847 likes, 57 comments - kut_austin on February 16, 2024: "Blues on the Green, Austin’s free annual concert series at Zilker Park, is back on this year.

..."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KUT News (@kut_austin)

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The sheriff's office in Montgomery County, Texas are asking for the community's help in finding a man who reportedly exposed himself inside of an H-E-B on Wednesday. Local law enforcement posted security camera screenshots of the alleged man to X, formerly known as Twitter, saying he is wanted for Indecent Exposure and Indecency with a Child.

A press release from the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office says the man allegedly exposed himself to a woman and her 1-year-old child in the store around 9 a.m. Wednesday at an H-E-B located in The Woodlands, Texas. The woman reportedly confronted the man who then fled the store and drove off in a dark-colored Chevrolet SUV.

The man with dreadlocks was seen at the store wearing a dark hoodie with gray sweatpants and black shoes. The sheriff's office is asking anyone with tips to call 936-760-5800. To leave a tip anonymously people can call 1-800-392-7867.

Article continues below this ad

This isn't the first incident where man was arrested and charged with indecent exposure at an H-E-B store. In November 2019, Jordan Flores was arrested after he was caught at a College Station H-E-B masturbating inside his car in the parking lot, according to KWTX. When Flores was caught, he drove off. However, police recorded his license plate and found the vehicle had been connected to similar incidents.

Flores was found and charged with two counts of indecent exposure.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
/law & government/public safety/crime & justice

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Man reportedly exposed himself to a child in H-E-B, police say

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office seeks a man who allegedly exposed himself to a woman and child inside an H-E-B in Texas.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
20 Butt family on the 2024 America's Richest Families - The Butt family owns an estimated 90% Texas-based grocery chain H-E-B. The company has over 400

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "We didn’t forget about you, #Houston! We partnered with @jwdanklefs to customize these @tecovas boots in honor of @rodeohouston being back soon 👀 🤠  Enter to win a pair for yourself and a $500 @heb gift card at http://heb.com/rodeohouston 🔥 No purchase necessary. Ends 2/27/24."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
829 likes, 32 comments - heb on February 21, 2024: "We didn’t forget about you, #Houston! We partnered with @jwdanklefs to customize these @tecovas..."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "Your NEW H-E-B Katy Park is now open at 24924 Morton Ranch Rd. in Katy TX!"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
943 likes, 40 comments - heb on February 21, 2024: "Your NEW H-E-B Katy Park is now open at 24924 Morton Ranch Rd. in Katy TX!"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
 H-E-B on Instagram: "Let’s Rodeo, San Antonio! We partnered with @jwdanklefs on these custom @tecovas boots for the @sanantoniorodeo 75th anniversary 🤠 🔥 Enter to win your own pair and a $500 @heb gift card at http://heb.com/sanantoniorodeo 👀 No purchase necessary. Ends 2/27/24."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
1,885 likes, 98 comments - heb on February 20, 2024: "Let’s Rodeo, San Antonio! We partnered with @jwdanklefs on these custom @tecovas boots for the ..."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.embed_code
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by H-E-B (@heb)

# data[].attributes.body
Diana Turcios

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Telemundo 60

A total of $70,000 in cash awards and a chance to have their product displayed on H-E-B shelves throughout the state will be awarded to winners of H-E-B Quest for Texas Best.

The 11th annual H-E-B Quest for Texas Best tries to identify the best products made in Texas. Over the past 10 years, H-E-B has found more than a thousand different products in the Lone Star State.

These products range from cookies, coffees, and roasted crickets to salsas, spices, pho, empanadas, and pickles, and everything in between.

The competition will accept submissions from Feb. 21 to April 4.

Following the call for entries, H-E-B's business development managers will choose the best candidates to pitch their products in front of a panel of judges in Dallas late this summer.

The top four winning products will be chosen by the panel of judges, who will also give out prizes of $20,000, $15,000, and $10,000 to the first, second, and third place winners, respectively, as well as $25,000, the title of "Texas Best" and placement on store shelves to the grand prize winner.

Local

The latest news from around North Texas.

"I can't wait to see what products are brought to the table this year. After 11 years of the H-E-B Quest for Texas Best and more than 6,000 entries, the creativity and ingenuity of Texans still inspires me," Sr. Director of Diversity & Inclusion and Supplier Diversity for H-E-B, James Harris said in a statement.

After reviewing over 6,000 samples of products made in Texas, H-E-B gave out nearly $2.5 million in prizes, along with additional funding for marketing, mentorship, and other services.

Fifty-one Quest for Texas Best suppliers have received commemorative H-E-B Million Dollar Club belt buckles from H-E-B for reaching $1 million in sales to date.

Participants can visit with leaders in Supplier Diversity and H-E-B Sourcing to discuss best practices for submitting their product and product development during special virtual information sessions on March 6, 13, 21, and 27, according to H-E-B.

Visit https://www.heb.com/static-page/quest to schedule your informational meeting, examine competition specifics, and discover more about the two-minute video requirement.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B hoping to find best Texas-made products

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A cash prize of $25,000, the title of "Texas Best" and placement on store shelves will be given to the grand prize winner of H-E-B's Quest for Texas Best.

# data[].attributes.body
Lexi Diaz

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
H-E-B has stores in towns as small as Carthage and Crockett, a pair of East Texas locales with fewer than 15,000 residents - combined.

So why hasn't the San Antonio-based grocer expanded to El Paso, the state's sixth-largest metro area?

"We're very confused," said Bonny Tallmon, an El Paso resident who started a Facebook page called " Bring HEB to El Paso " in 2013.

Article continues below this ad

The company has been growing rapidly elsewhere. It operates more than 430 stores in Texas and Mexico, primarily in South and Central Texas, along the Gulf Coast, and south of the border in the northeastern states of Nuevo León and Tamaulipas.

"While (we) don't have any immediate expansion plans for El Paso, we're always looking for opportunities to serve more Texans and communities across the state," a spokesperson for H-E-B said.

The company declined to make an executive available to discuss why it's been bypassing El Paso, which has a population of about 675,000 and another 200,000 or so residents in the surrounding area. But retail experts and economists say the reasons include the city's far-flung location, its residents' incomes and slow population growth.

Article continues below this ad

Per capita incomes in El Paso and Las Cruces, a nearby city in New Mexico, are lower than those in Texas and the U.S. as a whole, and population growth in those cities is moderate or slowing, said Tom Fullerton, a professor of economics at the University of Texas at El Paso.

But incomes are rising, he said. Per capita incomes in El Paso and Las Cruces are forecast to surpass $45,000 this year for the first time, while per capita income nationwide is predicted to be $71,100, according to a report by Fullerton and a colleague.

Whole Foods, Walmart

That apparently caught the attention of Whole Foods Market, which opened a store in El Paso in 2016.

Article continues below this ad

"To me, that was a sign that at least one company was aware that incomes are growing in El Paso, so they just didn't want to cede the market to Sprouts," Fullerton said, referring to Sprouts Farmers Market, which is also a minor contender in the city. "In terms of Walmart, I think they recognize, 'Hey, this is an area where we can capture market share really quickly because of the socioeconomic background of the city.' "

Walmart is the dominant grocer, claiming 57.5% of the market with its Walmart, Walmart Neighborhood Markets and Sam's Club stores, according to industry publication Chain Store Guide.

Albertsons is a distant second with 9.8%, followed by Costco Wholesale at 6.3%, Target at 4.6%, Family Dollar at 3% and Dollar General at 2.8%. El Super, Vista Markets, Sprouts and Whole Foods each have less than 3% market share.

"Walmart is the 600-pound gorilla," Fullerton said.

Article continues below this ad

Geography could play a role, too. El Paso is fairly isolated, making it more expensive for grocers to transport goods and restock shelves. It's not near any of the major markets where H-E-B has stores, manufacturing facilities for products and warehouses for keeping goods.

"It's a little bit different than, say, going from from the Metroplex down to Waco and down to Austin, where you can increase your market footprint incrementally," Fullerton said. "Coming out to El Paso and/or Las Cruces, we're pretty isolated from just about all the other major metro markets that you care to contemplate."

Cutting the corner

Some El Pasoans theorize that's why the company hasn't expanded to the city. But they also joke that H-E-B has simply forgotten they're part of the state.

Many were flabbergasted when a user on a Reddit forum posted a photo in 2020 of an H-E-B Original Cola can with a Texas logo omitting the far western corner of the state, where El Paso is located, the El Paso Times reported. An H-E-B spokesperson said the can's design had been adjusted differently depending on the packaging.

Article continues below this ad

The lack of H-E-B stores in the area has shocked residents like Marie Martinez, who moved to El Paso from San Antonio two years ago.

"It was a huge surprise," she said. "I don't know if I would've changed my mind (about moving)."

Martinez said she misses the variety of products and freshly made items at H-E-B. She said she also appreciates how the company treats employees. She worked for H-E-B's construction division years ago and met her ex-husband through the company. Many of her relatives have worked there, too, driving trucks and preparing products in the bakery department.

When she visits San Antonio, she said, she stocks up on El Milagro corn tortillas and Chef Paul Prudhomme's Magic Salmon Seasoning from H-E-B to carry west to El Paso. And she has a colleague who stocks up on gluten-free dough and keeps it in his freezer, she said.

"The products I have gotten used to with H-E-B, they don't have here," Martinez said.

Driving the decision

When considering where to expand, retailers' top criterion is, obviously, putting stores in an area where they can make money, said Phil Lempert, editor of Supermarket Guru.

That means finding a location with plenty of parking, reasonable rental rates or affordable costs of land acquisition and development, and easy access that is within reasonable driving distance for customers and employees. The typical supermarket employs from 300 to 400 people, so the area has to have a large enough workforce to draw on, he said.

Retailers also study demographics and geography when making location decisions. They usually cluster stores, since it's more expensive and time-consuming to transport products to a single location that requires daily deliveries.

They also examine the mix of potential customers. For example, if Walmart operates stores in an area with cost-conscious shoppers, H-E-B may not open a location there because it will have to fight the big national retailer on price just to get patrons in the door.

"If that type of customer where those Walmarts are wouldn't go into an H-E-B, it would take too much money and too much time to convince them to go into an H-E-B," Lempert said. "That's where you see the price wars coming in. That's where you see all these promotions. There's a lot of times where stores have done that in the past and they've failed because they just couldn't move (the customers) to their kind of store."

The company's distribution model is another factor, said Bobby Gibbs, a Dallas-based partner at consulting firm Oliver Wyman.

Some opt to self-distribute, which means they build distribution centers, hire workers for them and manage the logistics involved in getting products from factories to stores. Others use third-party wholesalers such as C&S Wholesale Grocers LLC, UNFI and Associated Wholesale Grocers Inc., or a mix of both options.

"You're more likely to have your wholesale partners already in the market if you're entering somewhere new," Gibbs said.

Local tastes

Big regional grocers such as H-E-B, St. Louis-based Schnucks and Des Moines-based Hy-Vee typically have more ties to the community and local products than national retailers, Lempert said. They tend to support more local charities and school programs, work with local growers and producers, and tailor their stores to the surrounding area.

Those players have to be more careful about understanding how they're viewed in markets they want to expand to, Wyman said.

"Depending on how far the market is from where they operate today, they have good brand perception (or) they may have no brand perception," he said. "They want to make sure that they are able to drive good customer perception."

H-E-B in particular is known for being deliberate about expansion. The company will buy parcels of land and sit on them for years, in some cases eventually building stores, as in the case of its move into the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Tallmon, the woman who started the El Paso Facebook page, is holding out hope that H-E-B will expand to her city eventually. She recalls her first encounter with the company: She and her husband were in San Antonio for medical appointments and walked into the store at Wurzbach Road and Interstate 10.

"We were just blown over," Tallmon said. "The displays, the shelving, the variety was great. We were in awe of the produce."

Now, the closest H-E-B to where she lives is in Midland - about 4½ hours away by car.

"I do get comments a lot (on the Facebook page) about why we don't have one here, and I will just tell them to please reach out," Tallmon said.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B has stores in Texas cities big and small - so why isn't it in El Paso?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
San Antonio-based H-E-B operates more than 430 stores in Texas and Mexico but has not expanded to El Paso, one of Texas' largest cities.

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Butt family has a net worth of $18.8 billion, according to Forbes, making them a "Decabillionaire Dynasty" that has at least 56 members. A decabillionaire is someone or something that has a worth valued over $10 billion. The family behind the San Antonio grocery company actually fell from the No. 15 spot last year despite having a lower net worth of $17.8 billion.

The dynasty started when the Butt family opened the first H-E-B store in Kerrville in 1905. Now the San Antonio-based company has over 430 stores across Texas and Mexico that has following of loyal customers that have built the store into brand that has spread to products like clothing and shoes.

Article continues below this ad

H-E-B has reported a 2023 fiscal year revenue of $46.3 billion, according to Forbes. The company passed down leadership throughout the years to family members, eventually landing on Howard Butt III in 2021. Charles Butt, the company's previous CEO, is still the company's chairman and had a reported net worth of $7.5 billion in 2023. The Butt family owns about 90% of the company while employees own the rest.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B family falls on Forbes list of billionaire dynasties

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Butt family, who are behind San Antonio-based grocery store H-E-B, have landed on Forbes wealthiest families list.

# data[].attributes.headline
Quest for Best has officially been kicked off

# data[].attributes.subject
Quest for Best has officially been kicked off

# data[].attributes.body
Madison Oppliger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
CORPUS CHRISTI, Tx - H-E-B launches its quest to find the best Texas-made products for the 11th year in a row. H-E-B Quest for Texas Best competitionaims to find the state's highest-quality food and household products.

Submissions for the competition will be accepted February 21 through April 4.

"Qualified participants will compete for a combined $70,000 in cash prizes and the opportunity to feature their product on H-E-B shelves across the state," said organizers.

H-E-B has discovered more than 100 unique products like cookies, coffees, empanadas, pickles, pho, salsas, spices, and everything in between.

"Non-food submissions have included beauty items, toys, home goods, and household necessities, to gardening supplies, coolers, and more. They have reviewed over 6,000 samples of the most creative Texas-made products and awarded nearly $2.5 million in prize money, complemented by marketing, mentoring, and supplemental support," added organizers.

Texans can submit their product through the H-E-B website anytime between Feb. 21 and April 4.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
H-E-B officially kicks off the 11th annual H-E-B Quest for Texas Best competition

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Submissions will be accepted from February 21 to April 4. Applicants compete for a share of $70,000 in total cash prizes and the opportunity to sell their products at H-E-B stores statewide.