Throughout the year, Publix associates learned about Mr. George’s six lessons, where they came from and how we live them today — and for many of them, it was cause for celebration.

These event planners jumped right in

Customer Marie Kellam called the event planning team at #356, Lakeland, Florida, to plan her family’s annual pool party. She told Event Planner Dee Smith that this was her first time planning the party because her husband passed away recently and he had always done the planning.

Marie came in to meet with Event Planner Elise Roberge and confessed she had no idea what she was doing. They discussed Marie’s vision for the party, and together they planned the menu and discussed other party essentials she would need.

As part of Publix’s 85th anniversary celebration, Marie was chosen as a Customer Prize Patrol winner. The prize patrol awarded customers with a $100 Publix gift card toward their event planning purchase.

“This experience was very nice for all of us. In that moment, we all felt how special it is to work for such a great company as Publix!” said Dee.

Royalty looks good on Joan

To celebrate Mr. George’s Treat Customers like Royalty lesson, some Joan Roberts and #6stores crowned a customer of their choosing as Publix Royalty for the Day.

Store #6, Wesley Chapel, Florida, chose Joan Roberts — a customer who has shopped at their store for more than 10 years.

“After crowning Joan, we presented her with a cake, paid for $100 of her groceries and celebrated with a balloon drop. She was absolutely thrilled and never expected this to happen to her that day,” said Assistant Store Manager Elliott Emmerth. “She said it was an honor that we chose her, and that it’s reasons like this Publix is her store.”

Every day counts for these associates

In honor of Mr.George Day [Mr. George’s birthday], #1439, Orlando, Florida, made a Publix-inspired calendar of events. The calendar reminded associates of our milestones so they could share the excitement with their customers. Customer Service Staff Dunia Elmalki did the artwork and even recreated the 85th anniversary logo and the first Publix store.

“We wanted to do something special for the month of September, something we could share with our customers. The team collaborated on ideas and together decided this would be the perfect way to honor our culture, company and founder, Mr. George,” said Assistant Store Manager Dean Adams. “Our customers loved the board, and it made them feel like part of the celebration.”