Houston’s Watt Named H-E-B Spokesman

SAN ANTONIO – H-E-B said it has hired Houston Texans star defensive lineman J.J. Watt to be a spokesman for the regional chain.

“H-E-B is honored to partner with J.J. Watt and believe he is a natural choice to represent our company,” said Scott McClelland, president of H-E-B’s Houston division. “Over the last two years, J.J. has demonstrated that he shares H-E-B’s commitment to the Houston community while embracing the ‘Spirit of Giving’ philosophy H-E-B is known for in giving back to those in need.”

The company, with 350-plus locations in Texas, operates 85 stores in the Houston area and is expanding there rapidly. A recent report in the Houston Business Journal cited 76 traditonal H-E-B supermarkets, one upscale Central Market store, two Mi Tiendas serving the Hispanic consumer and six Joe V’s Smart Shops offering a price-impact experience.

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Through the new agreement, Watt will serve as an H-E-B spokesperson to promote certain H-E-B products. H-E-B has worked with the Houston Texans since the inaugural season in 2002 and currently partners with the team for the “Tailgater of the Year” and “Sacks for Hunger” programs.

Watt, nicknamed J.J. Swatt for his ability to knock down opposing teams' passes, founded and serves on the board of directors of the Justin J. Watt Foundation, which provides support to after-school athletic programs in Wisconsin and Texas.