H-E-B is accepting entries for its 2022 Quest for Texas Best competition through April 7.
The grocer is searching the Lone Star State for the finest foods and beverages, as well as beauty items, household necessities, gardening supplies, and other items.
“At H-E-B, we’re always seeking unique products to share with our customers,” said James Harris, senior director of diversity and inclusion and supplier diversity for H-E-B, in a statement. “Quest for Texas Best is one of many innovative programs we offer to tailor our product offerings, while continuing to expand the opportunities for small businesses in Texas.”
Qualified participants will compete for a combined $70,000 in cash prizes and the opportunity to feature their product on H-E-B shelves across the state. Texas-based suppliers must create, produce, or co-pack the products in Texas.
To prepare for Quest, participants will have the opportunity to visit with H-E-B’s sourcing and supplier diversity leaders about product development and best practices for submitting their product during a special virtual information session on March 24.
Registration is required at heb.com/quest, and space is limited to competitors only.
Since launching the contest in 2014, H-E-B has reviewed more than 4,500 samples of Texas-made food and beverages. More than 750 of these products have been placed on the grocer’s shelves, and nearly $1.5 million in prize money has been awarded along with marketing, mentoring, and supplemental support.
After the call for entries period is complete, H-E-B’s business development managers will select the top applicants, who will present their products before a panel of judges selected by H-E-B on August 24 at Fair Park in Dallas.
The panel of judges will determine the top four winning products and award $25,000 to the grand prize winner, the title of “Texas Best,” and placement on store shelves; $20,000 to the first-place winner; $15,000 to the second-place winner; and $10,000 to the third-place winner.
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