Central Market
A gourmet supermarket chain originating in Austin, Texas and owned by H.
E.B. supermarkets of San Antonio. All 7 locations are in Texas.Locations exist in the four major metropolitan regions of the state—Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. The number of locations in each of the metro areas is 4, 1, 1, and 1 respectively. This is ironic, as H.E.B. does not have and never has had any of their regular supermarket locations in the Dallas/Fort Worth area while having a large presence in the other three regions. However, this may be due to the very competitive nature of Dallas/
Fort Worth's grocery business environment.The Central Market concept has been very successful and well-received since its inception. One is
hard-pressed to find an equivalent in other U.S. states in terms of store size, gourmet/world product selection, price competitiveness, and customer traffic. The store is viewed by both the company and its customers as a destination supermarket, much like IKEA is viewed as a destination furniture store or
The Home Depot's EXPO Design Center is viewed as a destination home interiors store.All Central Market locations feature "Cafe on the Run," a fast-gourmet eatery catering to both shoppers and non-shoppers alike. Special events also occur at the markets weekly or monthly. Some locations have live music, an
upstairs lounge, and other amenities.