H-E-B plans for a ‘world-class store’

San Antonio-based H-E-B is aiming to transform one of its longest-standing grocery stores into one of the most innovative stores in the company.

According to the H-E-B, it plans to reopen its original 25,000-square-foot store in Austin, Texas, as a creative, world-class grocery store with more than 100,000 square feet. Consumers can expect to see murals and art installations by local artists; a wide selection of organic foods, prepared foods and bulk items; and vibrant signage and natural light throughout the store.

The store will also include new features and innovations to make it a community gathering place, with influences from across the world, like an eclectic food hall with indoor and outdoor dining spaces, and H-E-B’s first-ever beer garden, according to the company. The location will also reopen with the company’s Curbside and Home Delivery services.

“We are thrilled to share the news about our vision for this store with our neighbors. Our goal is to represent their needs and greatest wishes for their neighborhood grocery store, while keeping with the personality and vibrancy of the community,” said Jeff Thomas, H-E-B senior vice president and general manager of the Central Texas Region. “We still have a year of planning ahead of us before we begin construction, and we’re excited to use that time to listen to community members and gain their valuable feedback on how the new store can best serve them.”

According to the company, the permitting and planning process is expected to run through until mid- to late-2020 with the store remaining open and fully operational during that time.