Publix

Publix is a leading supermarket operator with a long-standing presence across the Southeastern United States. The company was founded in 1930 by George W. Jenkins in Winter Haven, Florida, starting as a single grocery store during the Great Depression. Over the years, Publix has grown steadily, opening its first full-service supermarket in 1940 and gradually expanding its reach beyond Florida.

A significant milestone in the company’s history was its emergence as Florida’s dominant grocery chain by the 1970s, which set the stage for regional expansion. In the decades that followed, Publix extended its footprint into Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia. As of November 2025, Publix operates 1,370 stores, with the majority located in Florida, making it the largest supermarket chain in the state.

Publix is unique among major grocery operators as it is the largest employee-owned company in the United States. All stores are corporately owned and operated, which supports a consistent customer experience and operational standards. The company’s employee ownership model has contributed to a culture of accountability and service, which is reflected in its reputation for clean stores and attentive staff.

In the last five years, Publix has maintained an active growth posture, focusing on both new builds and infill opportunities. The company continues to develop in high-growth suburban and urban markets, with particular emphasis on North Carolina, Virginia, and Alabama. This approach includes adapting store formats to fit local market needs, allowing Publix to serve a range of communities while maintaining its standards for quality and service.

Publix’s scale, financial stability, and strong credit rating have made it a sought-after anchor tenant in shopping centers and mixed-use developments throughout the Southeast. The company’s headquarters remain in Lakeland, Florida, where its corporate and real estate teams oversee ongoing expansion and site selection. Publix’s continued investment in new markets and its adaptability to changing consumer preferences underscore its credibility and relevance in today’s retail landscape.