H-E-B has unveiled a new pilot program in response to the state of the market and to help out restaurant and foodservice operators. According to news source My San Antonio, H-E-B is selling full meals from local San Antonio restaurants as part of its latest strategy to keep local businesses afloat during the development of COVID-19.
“We are a family of foodies, and we have a deep relationship with lots of restaurants and chefs, so this is something we wanted to do to help in these difficult times,” said Dya Campos, H-E-B’s Director of Government and Public Affairs, according to the news source.
Under the pilot program, all of the proceeds earned from the sale of the meals will go directly back to the restaurants participants, which so far includes Max & Louie’s New York Diner, Rosario’s Mexican Café Y Cantina, Fresa’s, and Ramen Tatsu-ya.
Though a pilot like H-E-B's would have typically taken months to be launched, the retailer rolled it out within the span of a week—a testament to H-E-B's commitment. As part of the launch, the grocer has worked to ensure the restaurant participants follow the correct regulations and labeling requirements mandated at the retail-level.
"[H-E-B has] been an unbelievable partner,” said Max & Louie’s Owner Drew Glick. “Everybody’s coming together in a time of pain to help an independent restaurant survive to thrive.”
Which other grocers will partake in similar pilot programs as partnerships between retailers, foodservice operators, and restaurants continue? Deli Market News will continue to report.
