For more than a quarter of a century, Houston Style Magazine has proudly partnered with H-E-B — a name that stands for more than groceries. It represents Texas pride, purpose, and people first. As the state’s favorite grocer earns top honors once again — crowned No. 1 Retailer in America in the inaugural Experience Report by Supermarketnews.com — the recognition reinforces what Texans have known all along: H-E-B isn’t just a store. It’s a way of life.

A Texas Legacy of Loyalty and Love

Since 1999, Houston Style Magazine and H-E-B have worked side by side to celebrate community impact, amplify local voices, and showcase how business can serve humanity. From sponsoring food drives to supporting education, disaster recovery, and local culture, H-E-B has proven that grocery shopping can be a heartfelt experience rooted in service.

The Experience Report, created by brand strategy and retail design agency ChangeUp, surveyed 6,000 consumers, 200 brands, and analyzed more than 300,000 data points to measure emotional connection, advocacy, and relevance. Among 50 major retail and restaurant brands, H-E-B emerged as the clear standout — scoring 10 to 15 points higher than competitors in nearly every category, including memorability, novelty, and return intent.

“H-E-B dominates on emotional connection and functional excellence that drive loyalty,” the report emphasized. For many Texans, that emotional connection runs deep — “Moving away from Texas means leaving H-E-B,” one participant said. “People genuinely grieve that loss.”

When Crisis Calls, H-E-B Answers

True to its motto, “Helping Here,” H-E-B has long set the gold standard for corporate citizenship. When hurricanes strike the Gulf Coast or wildfires rage across Texas, the company often mobilizes its relief teams before federal agencies even arrive. One survey respondent noted, “When a hurricane hit, H-E-B was there before FEMA.”

This spirit of readiness and compassion is no surprise to Houston communities that have seen H-E-B’s red trucks roll in with food, water, and hope — time and again.

Community, Culture, and Connection

Over the past 26 years, Houston Style Magazine has chronicled H-E-B’s unwavering commitment to Texas families — from the annual Feast of Sharing events to H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards, from scholarships and mentorships to championing local Black, Latino, and women-owned businesses.

“As Publisher of Houston Style Magazine, I’m proud of our long-standing partnership with H-E-B — a collaboration rooted in uplifting the people of Houston,” said Francis Page Jr. “Together, we’ve shared stories of resilience, diversity, and unity — the very qualities that define and strengthen our city.”

Top of the Table, Still Serving with Heart

Only a few grocery retailers made the Experience Report’s top 10 — with Costco at fifth place and H-E-B leading by a landslide. Sam’s Club followed at 19th, Publix at 24th, and Trader Joe’s at 26th. But while others sell convenience, H-E-B sells connection — a uniquely Texan experience that keeps customers coming back generation after generation.

H-E-B’s 2025 recognition is more than an industry win; it’s a triumph for every employee, supplier, and shopper who believes in the company’s core mission: “Because People Matter.”

A Partnership Built on Purpose

As H-E-B continues to innovate through smart store design, digital transformation, and sustainable practices, Houston Style Magazine proudly celebrates its 26-year marketing partnership — a relationship anchored in mutual respect, shared values, and a vision for community prosperity.

From the aisles of Houston’s neighborhood stores to the pages of Houston Style Magazine, the story of H-E-B is one of trust, tradition, and Texas-sized heart.