Retailer Focus: Publix
From a single store to the largest employee-owned company in the United States, a lot about Publix has changed. And yet, their commitment to customer service, their employees, and their community remains as strong as ever. As one of the 10 largest supermarket chains in the country, Publix has never been afraid to do things differently. So, it’s no surprise they are going against the grain—and the economic trends—by focusing on growth this year.
In December 2025, Publix opened three supercenters in Daniel Island, Aiken, SC, and Jacksonville, FL. More store openings are planned in 2026, including a store in Columbia, SC’s Bull Street District. Company leaders are focusing on opening new, larger prototype stores that take customer experience to the next level and feature a plethora of gourmet options such as sushi, ramen, artisan cheeses, and more. In this new format, there are enhanced deli offerings, including burrito bowls and a pizza oven. Some of their new stores even boast in-store “pours” areas that offer smoothies and acai bowls. Plus, customers can order from a wide selection of coffee, wine, beer, and kombucha to sip while they shop.
“We are thrilled to welcome customers back to their new Publix at Daniel Island Town Center,” said Media Relations Manager Jared Glover in December. “This larger, enhanced store is designed with our customers in mind to continue making shopping a pleasure.”
History—Then and Now
When the first Publix store opened and set a new standard for both in-store experience and employee relations, it was not the best of times. In fact, it was the Great Depression. But that did not stop George Jenkins from not just opening a store but traveling the country in search of better products to stock his shelves. It also did not stop him from dreaming bigger by not just focusing on food quality, but on the people who ran his store. Publix was one of the first stores to offer profit-sharing and employee ownership. This model has created strong loyalty, better customer service, and low turnover, making it a competitive advantage and a driver of its success.
Today, you will still find the founder’s legacy alive and well with the 260,000 employees who work at the stores and facilities. Publix has been named one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For (1998—2024), earning Publix recognition as one of the Great Places to Work Legends. They were voted America’s Best Employers for New Grads by Forbes magazine (2020—2024), and they won Best Companies for Diversity by Women’s Choice Award (2020—2024).
What else rings true today? With retail sales reaching $59.7 billion in 2024, Publix’s dedication to operational excellence and providing premier customer service has paid off. And while the original 1930 store still stands in Winter Haven, FL, and is on the National Register of Historic Places, Publix celebrated its 95th anniversary in September 2025. As of the time of this article, Publix now operates more than 1,420 grocery stores.
Publix’s focus on innovation came to the forefront in 1980 when it prioritized using technology to make shopping more pleasurable and forward-thinking usage of their stores as more than just for groceries. Publix embraced innovations such as check-out scanning statewide, ATM networks, and the first Publix pharmacy. Today, they are still leading the way as they embrace technology such as AI and digital platforms to personalize shopping and streamline their operations. But also, they are leaders in embracing simplicity with a goal of always putting the customers’ shopping pleasure first.
Recent News
In a year of bold expansion and new store prototypes, Publix hasn’t forgotten its roots of how the giant got to where it is today. Publix shows its appreciation to its customers by being deeply dedicated to community involvement. In December, they donated $15 million to more than 300 nonprofit organizations throughout the Southeast that focus on housing and shelter services, including Habitat for Humanity affiliates. “We’re proud to build on our support of Habitat for Humanity affiliates and other nonprofits,” said Publix Charities Executive Director John Doran. “These organizations are important to our communities and offer hope to individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity and homelessness. We remain committed to continuing Publix founder George Jenkins’ legacy by doing good, together.”
The ways Publix gives back and focuses on customers also show the company’s unique brand.
This holiday season, they launched a Merry Birthday campaign to give Christmas birthdays the celebration they deserve. Original research from Publix found that 62 percent of people with a birthday during the winter holidays say the season’s celebrations and commitments have interfered with their birthday. As part of its commitment to making things special, Publix created this year’s Christmas campaign to help all those who have a birthday during the holiday season be seen and appreciated—turning a shared occasion into a truly meaningful moment with a Merry Birthday cake. Publix also delivered Merry Birthday cakes to families in its footprint who welcomed new babies on Christmas this year, including at Florida’s Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center and Tampa General Hospital.
Leadership
Publix doesn’t just celebrate its community; it also honors its leaders. They are well known for their “promote-from-within” culture. They are dedicated to helping associates build meaningful careers by providing the necessary training and opportunities for advancement. Many of Publix’s top leaders, including current CEO Kevin Murphy, started their careers in entry-level positions, such as baggers or clerks, and worked their way up through the ranks.
This past November, Publix recognized 12 outstanding associates with the George W. Jenkins and President’s awards. Named after the company’s founder, the George W. Jenkins Award is the company’s most prestigious award. It is presented to managers who exemplify leadership, perpetuate the Publix culture and demonstrate their commitment to Jenkins’ vision.
“George Jenkins believed in helping associates prepare for opportunity and creating an environment for them to be successful,” said Publix CEO Kevin Murphy. “The honorees exemplify these ideals and deserve recognition for their continued dedication to sustaining Publix’s legacy.”
November also saw two of Publix’s leaders, Sophia Azarian (Senior Manager of Pharmacy Licensing) and Erica Phillips (Director of Retail Pharmacy Operations), named to the 2025 Top Women in Health, Wellness & Beauty list. Drug Store News honored the accomplishments of the two Publix associates for their outstanding contributions to the retail pharmacy industry.
“These leaders exemplify the values that make Publix Pharmacy a trusted name in health and wellness,” said Publix Vice President of Pharmacy Dain Rusk. “Their unwavering commitment to excellence inspires our team to reach new heights and positively impact the communities we serve.”
The values and philosophies established by George Jenkins so many years ago can be felt and found in Publix stores today. They serve as the strong foundation of their mission to be the premier quality food retailer in the world. With their continued focus on expansion, not just in footprint but in their approach to customer delight, they are poised for 95 more years of success.
