HEB, the largest supermarket chain in Texas, does not currently accept Apple Pay across most of its 420+ locations in the state. However, this is likely to change by late 2023 or early 2024, as H-E-B rolls out contactless payment acceptance more widely.
Understanding Contactless Payments Acceptance
Contactless payments allow shoppers to tap a credit card, mobile device or smartwatch to make secure, convenient payments without swiping or inserting a card. We also cleared the confusion about does Wendy’s accept apple pay?
Popular contactless platforms include:
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- Samsung Pay
These payment mediums leverage near-field communication (NFC) technology to authorize transactions.
HEB and Contactless Payments
While HEB has integrated contactless payment capability across its stores in waves, Apple Pay acceptance specifically has not gone nationwide yet as of November 2023.
However, over 90 HEB locations did switch on Apple Pay support back in 2019. And sources indicate this is now expanding to more stores, though timelines are unclear.
For now, the only definitive way to confirm if a store takes Apple Pay is to look for contactless payment stickers at checkout or inquire with customer service.
Apple Pay Acceptance in HEB Mexico
Separately, reports reveal that H-E-B stores in Mexico do accept Apple Pay. Mexican customers can already tap to pay using recent iPhone models and the Apple Watch.
This indicates that broader rollout to US stores may be imminent, especially considering the contactless payment push we have observed in the retail sector.
Google Pay is another mobile wallet option currently available at H-E-B Mexico checkout counters. Presumably, support for Google Pay and Samsung Pay will accompany Apple Pay’s US launch.
How to Check If Any Store Accepts Apple Pay
Wondering if a retailer takes Apple Pay before visiting can save time and headaches. Here are some tips:
- Check their website/app for Apple Pay markings
- Call and directly ask about Apple Pay acceptance
- Search news reports and forums for recent confirmation
If uncertain, carrying a secondary payment card is wise until contactless payments become universally commonplace.
Apple Pay Arriving at All H-E-B Locations Soon
With tens of millions of active iPhone users in the US, H-E-B is likely looking to support Apple Pay more extensively in time for 2024.
As they accelerate rollout, tap and go shopping convenience for loyal customers also grows. We’ll be sure to provide updates if any official Apple Pay announcements surface.