The guy who owns HEB is an open borders type. With heightened sensitivity to the unnecessary presence of illegal aliens he’s been husbanding his resources by keeping his prices as high as possible ~ he might end up needing to hire Americans as he lays off Mexicans.
HEB’s prices are not high. They run a fine company.
As far as his politics, I know nothing about the man. I do know about his employees and his stores.
There are 2 “chain” operations in Texas that are fine organizations. HEB and United. Both do an excellent job.
That said, I have a local grocery store that I shop at. It is 10 miles from my home, is owned by a local family, has prices very competitive with the chain operations, a very good merchandise selection and has good promotions every week.
In spite of the worst drought in over 100 years here in Texas I cannot see the price inflation. And I shop for groceries every week.
There is some variability, but not widespread items.
I do have a large garden this year, but it has been a struggle. Our temperatures have been over 100 degrees daily for 2 months. Today it was 109 degrees. And it is forecast to be 106 for the next 4 days.
We have had 1 inch of rain here since last October. Nothing is living except what is irrigated. My father and uncle sold all their cattle for the 2nd time in my father’s lifetime. We simply will not have winter grazing to feed them. I shutter to think what they will cost to replace.