After more than six decades serving the community around South Congress and Oltorf, H-E-B is set to make multiple upgrades to its longest-standing store in Austin, Texas. The retailer will start moving forward with this project early next year.
In February, demolition will begin on the old store, and H-E-B will open a temporary location in the adjacent Twin Oaks Shopping Center to serve customers during construction. The temporary store will open one week before construction starts. H-E-B estimates the project will take about two years to complete.
“Our vision has always been to create a store that our customers will be proud of, an iconic location that reflects the personality and vibrancy of the South Congress community,” said Cathy Harm, H-E-B group VP of Central Texas. “This store is an important part of this neighborhood, and we hope this new design conveys the deep gratitude we have for our loyal customers who have supported our business for more than 60 years.”
At more than 145,000 square feet, the store will have three levels: two for shopping and dining and three levels of above-ground parking with more than 600 spaces. There also are plans for a True Texas BBQ at the new store. The restaurant was named best barbecue chain in the state by Texas Monthly.
The new store also will feature indoor and outdoor seating for dining and an outdoor stage for live performances.
Other store features will include:
- Curbside and home delivery services;
- Full-service pharmacy with drive thru;
- Bakery with handmade breads and H-E-B’s in-store made, warm tortillas;
- Expanded beer and wine selection;
- Healthy Living, Pet and Beauty departments;
- H-E-B Flower Bar with seasonal bouquets and arrangements;
- H-E-B Meal Simple section with fresh chef-inspired meals prepared in store;
- Sushiya sushi made in-store daily;
- Cooking Connection with live demonstrations and samplings;
- A host of environmental features including plans for rooftop solar panels, smart lighting and abundant natural lighting; and
- Local art inclusion that celebrates the store’s longtime South Congress roots and today’s vibrant art scene.
While the company continues to put the finishing touches on the store’s look and feel, there are several additional amenities that will provide a dynamic, entertaining and innovative shopping experience.
During operation of the temporary store, the location will offer many of the same quality products and convenient services available to customers, including home delivery and H-E-B Pharmacy services. Curbside pickup will not be available at the temporary store, but area customers will be able to access the service from the nearby Riverside H-E-B plus! store.
The H-E-B located at 2400 S. Congress Avenue originally opened in 1957 at 25,000 square feet. Currently, the store is about 69,000 square feet, and the reimagined store marks the first time this location will be completely rebuilt from the ground-up.
Customers looking for more information, including how to contact H-E-B with questions about updates to the new store can contact the Customer Relations team at [email protected] or call 1-800-432-3113.
