I believe if Mr. George saw the lessons we’ve been sharing, he would say Respect the Dignity of the Individual is the single most important lesson we have.

Our company is all about people — associates, customers and suppliers. This lesson came after Mr. George traveled to Georgia to meet the owner of Piggly Wiggly — where he worked — to share ideas he had about the company. He wasn’t acknowledged, and that experience served as his motivation to start Publix. He knew right then that when he started his own company, he would make sure people — whether an associate, customer or supplier — felt valued and respected.

We are a very diverse group of individuals, and it’s important we respect the dignity of each other. Even with our differences, we have something in common, something that gives us the opportunity to come together — that is serving customers.

I love this part of our culture because when our associates feel valued and respected, our customers feel valued and respected too.

Of course, as good as we are, we aren’t perfect. We can always improve, which is why getting to know each other better helps us see others’ perspectives. And that builds respect.

I couldn’t agree more with the lesson letter from our president, Todd Jones, this month. “Publix is a workplace where you can feel welcome, secure and valued. It’s a place where you can be exceptional and be yourself. It’s also a place where differences are embraced and encouraged.” Use his challenge to get to know someone better. It will help make Publix a little better.

Ed Crenshaw
CEO