Grocer H-E-B to spend roughly US$100M to relocate, expand, remodel stores in Austin, Texas; company has launched a massive price-reduction campaign to attract customers

Cindy Allen

LOS ANGELES , January 30, 2012 (Industry Intelligence) – In 2012, grocery store chain H. E. Butt Grocery Co. is planning to spend approximately US$100 million to relocate, expand and remodel stores located in Austin, Texas, the Statesman.com reported Jan. 28.

H-E-B President Craig Boyan reported that this is the company’s largest-ever investment in its Austin market.

The company will build two new stores, expand one location, and remodel at least eight stores.

Boyan said that, during 2012, the company is planning to hire 1,000 people in Central Texas.

H-E-B officials report that they have taken steps across the state to tailor the items on offer at individual stores to suit the needs of neighborhood residents.

H-E-B has also launched a price cutting campaign, "Compare our Prices to Anyone" in order to attract customers.

"We listen to our customers; we know that times are tough," said Boyan.

In addition, H-E-B has launched a health eating campaign designed to encourage the consumption of plant-based foods.

Analysts report that traditional grocery stores such as H-E-B are facing increased competition from dollar stores, convenience stores and club clubs as customers try to save money in a weak economy.

The primary source of this article is the Statesman.com, Austin, Texas, on Jan. 28, 2012.

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