Cashier Sarah Larson and Produce Clerk Andrew Neeson
Store #1437, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
Why we love Publix!
Well what’s not to love.
From the great customer service they provide to the unique items they have on display. There’s a lot of reasons to shop at Publix and nowhere else! Our families have been shopping at Publix for as long as we can remember.
Cashier Sarah Larson and Produce Clerk Andrew Neeson both work at the Sawgrass Village Publix. Sarah and Andrew first met in this store, during the early months of its spectacular grand re-opening, a bit more than two years ago. Since then, they have been dating. They are both pursuing their education, and when they are not studying, they look forward to working at Publix. Sarah and Andrew are so happy they met, and are not sure they would have met without Publix. Not to mention, they wouldn’t have shared their enjoyable breaks together on these great benches outside of Publix. While enjoying the fresh air and scenery, they like to enjoy one of Publix’s best sellers — a Publix sub! It makes for a delectable lunch for two. There are great accommodations for the customers and the employees. That’s why Andrew and Sarah love “their” store.
There are many reasons why we all love Publix! Shop Publix!
Meat Cutter Jeff Hedgepeth
Store #1466, Cary, North Carolina
I have waited for this opportunity to work for Publix for a few years now. Three days before my first day on the job, I fell and broke my shoulder. I was scared to death at what Publix was going to say. So on my first day of orientation, I showed up with a broken shoulder. Store Manager Tim Gibson saw me and asked what happened. He told me not to worry about it and to come in and learn what we do. He said, if you need help with something, someone will be there for you.
Four months later, my mother passed away. The meat manager told me to take off all the time I needed and that this place would be here when I came back. Associates at the store called and texted me with their condolences. And at my mother’s wake, I saw Meat Manager Sean Madden with tears running down my face. I could hardly speak.
My wife said to me, “You are working for the best company and you are not going anywhere.” I could not ask for a better company or associates to work with. I plan to work 20 years and retire into the sunset.
This is my Publix.
Grocery Team Leader Wayne Waters
Store #1456, Saint Petersburg, Florida
Publix was not my first choice of jobs when I was looking, I actually only applied for the job because I needed some customer service experience. That all changed when I did my green carpet welcome and fell in love with how well the company seemed to be focused on the associates, as well as the customers. After working part time for a few months, I had an opportunity for full time and since then, have been moving up quite quickly. I’ve had many amazing opportunities in my short career here.
I had the great privilege of being a store representative for Publix during the new construction of store #1456, Saint Petersburg, Florida. That was one of my greatest achievements, from a working stand point, that I’m extremely proud of! I’ve also had the privilege of meeting a lot of people that have helped me along the way, and I have made many friends that I consider family. Last year was my first time going to the Ronald McDonald house, and I had an awesome time. Vice President Tom McLaughlin and I got to use a table saw together, and I’ll never forget that. It goes to show that this company is amazing since a vice president of the company is out with his people!
Front Service Clerk Bob Lonkart
Store #843, Bonita Springs, Florida
On Oct. 29, 2011, I was hired as a seasonal front service clerk. Soon thereafter, I had a medical situation that needed immediate attention. I asked my customer service manager if my position would still be there when I returned to work. I was assured it would be, which gave me time to get better and return to work. As a part-time associate with medical insurance, I was able to have the medical attention I needed without worrying about how I was going to pay for my medical needs. Publix is truly a great place to work because of the caring employees. It’s truly a place that’s like home, and I enjoy going to work every day.
Cashier Colleen Whitlow
Store # 1496, Dade City, Florida
Sept. 7, 2013, is a special day for me. It was my first official day as a Publix associate in Parrish, Florida. I had no way of knowing that first day, just what was in store for me as I started out on this new journey. Store #1305 welcomed me in, showed me the ropes, and changed my concept of going to work — forever. Store Manager Kim Taylor and her crew showed me the Publix culture of treating every associate with dignity and value, and soon I was looking forward to going to work. My first year anniversary was exciting, knowing that I was on my way to becoming a stockholder and owner of a company that still believes in outstanding, old fashioned customer service. I’m not going to lie, I was looking for a job that could provide me with a retirement, and [I think] Publix is only going to grow.
Then we found a farm in Dade City, Florida, and I was excited to have my horse finally in my own barn, but it was very bittersweet to leave my Parkwood Publix family behind. I transferred to store #1245, Zephyrhills, Florida, and found Store Manager Dan Spence and his crew really welcoming too, and realized then that Publix just has great people.
On Oct. 22, 2015, I had the honor of opening store #1496, Dade City, Florida, which was a once-in-a-lifetime event that I’m glad I got to experience. There we all were, in our new uniforms —looking and feeling like a million bucks, brimming over with excitement and pride. I had the pleasure of speaking with President Todd Jones, thanks to District Manager April Young, after the family night ceremonies and found him to be very down to Earth and attentive. Knowing that he too, worked his way up through the ranks made me feel that he appreciates what we all do — he’s been there. When he thanked me for doing what I do, I knew he was sincere — we are all part of a team that can’t succeed unless we all succeed. And Publix works hard at helping us to grow and succeed.
Publix isn’t a job — it’s a culture. A family, where associates feel valued and are treated like people and not numbers. Something I remember from my orientation is that Mr. George said, “Never let making a profit stand in the way of doing the right thing.” And this holds true today, and that in itself is amazing considering the size and scope of Publix. It also gives me the opportunity to volunteer in my community on our Day of Giving, and through our numerous fundraising drives for different organizations.
Recently, I was bringing in carts on a hot day, and Store Manager Chris Denton was outside helping. I asked him why he was out there and he said, “I never want to forget where I came from. The only difference between you and me is that I’ve been here longer.” He, Kim and Dan and their management teams are the reason Publix is special — they know exactly where we are because they took this same path. And I will never tire of hearing people gushing over their new store and how long they’ve waited for their Publix and how beautiful it is. And I never tire of telling them that it was built just for them, because they validate my reason for being there. The reason I love Publix is because no matter how hard other companies try to compete, they can’t even come close because we are Publix — we own it. Our secret sauce? It’s that indomitable Publix spirit. And so it goes.
Liquor Clerk Don Slough,
Store #1448, Inverness, Florida
As a senior employee (yes, that means old), I feel that I may have a unique perspective on employers, attitudes and the general working environment. This comes to me not because I am particularly brilliant, but because I have been afforded years of employment with various companies and have the luxury of looking back.
I applied for a position with Publix merely out of a need for extra income to enjoy the game of golf and other incidentals like food. I anticipated that my age would be a negative factor. To my appreciative surprise, I was hired within 24 hours.
Over the years, through my association with various companies, I have learned that the ingredient for employee satisfaction and retention is feeling the LIDMAC from their company: Loyalty-Integrity-Discretion-Morals-and Character.
- Loyalty to the brand they are known for; and Loyalty to employees progress.
- Integrity by doing the right thing for patrons and employees.
- Discretion by understanding and applying empathy amid chaos.
- Morals by acting with fairness when no one is watching.
- Character that reveals itself with employees wanting to mimic leaders.
Most employees understand there will be discipline, failures, and yes, occasionally anger. However, an employer, as is the case with Publix, who espouses LIDMAC will make it seem worthwhile and success achievable.
I had never worked in retail before, so certain events and actions within our store impress me — a store manager helping a customer with their cart to the car, a culture of not telling, but showing a customer to the product, walking with a physically handicapped shopper to help reach products, and employees rushing to help a fellow worker with a sudden fainting spell.
But the thing that is so extraordinary is the fact that Publix and its employees do this every single day throughout the year, not just holidays or special occasions, but Monday through Sunday. And we’re treated with respect and dignity, so you know we’re employed by a world class outfit.
Our store is in a community that we share with many senior citizens. Many have lost their loved ones, live alone, and look for avenues to escape loneliness and share their stories and just plain vent. We are fortunate that so many of our valuable employees take the time to listen, empathize, and respect the shoppers who hope we are there listening. Publix does a great job at somehow recognizing and hiring employees who possess that innate characteristic of caring.
I hesitate acknowledging the person who makes our particular store stand out as she prefers to stay behind the scenes and let her employees receive acclaim. Our store manager quietly exemplifies Mr. George’s philosophy of customer caring and she deftly sends this message down to her staff.
Nice job Publix!
Cashier Alex Marzilli
Store #827, Holly Hill, Florida
Great Place to Work Story Telling Challenge
I’ve been working for Publix as a cashier since 2006, but my story with Publix began just a few months ago. I say this because I am a transgender female and a short while ago I went by another name, gender and identity. I was Albert.
For years, I was a part of Publix but never felt I could fit in as Albert. I worked hard and was acknowledged by both customers and managers for being friendly and a familiar face. As a cashier, I could reach out and be a part of my customers’ lives, but at the end of the day I wasn’t really me. It was a part in a performance I could no longer keep up, but this isn’t the story I need to tell anymore.
My story truly begins with Publix at year’s end. One night Store Manager Buddy Barnes asked about my plans with Publix, and this time, it was different. I usually fumble around and give an answer that just gets past the question, but not anymore. I finally worked up the courage to tell my store manager the truth. I am transgender and have been struggling to see a future for me at Publix, or anywhere. My struggles with dress code and fears of rejection from the community had me unable to take control of my life.
This is when Buddy improved my life forever. He told me he would take care of it. He would place my problems on his shoulders. He explained that even though he couldn’t relate or fully understand what I’ve been through, no one should feel that way and that he would make it right. After a few weeks, I was brought into the office with spectacular news. Publix accepts me for who I am and will gladly let me work as Alex! My managers were completely on board and fully supportive of my situation. This was the best day at work ever!
Once I received my female cashier uniform, I was through the roof. It might be just clothing to many people, but for me, it’s my time to shine. With this uniform and some feminine touches I can now be who I am in front of the people I care about. Was I nervous? Of course I was. But anything worth doing will likely make you at least a little nervous! At the registers, I now make people smile when they see just how happy I am.
Many customers notice my new vitality even before they notice my appearance. They tell me that seeing people like me happy at work are why they choose to shop at Publix. My managers and my other fellow associates are so very kind to me and compliment my appearance. Briana, Zach and a few others have even started using “she” instead of “he”, which is a huge deal to me. I know I don’t pass for female yet, but hearing it lifts my spirits and reminds me why I love Publix! I hope to share this message with everyone. Even if you don’t know my pain, we all have pain, and Publix will listen and make things right for us all if we have the courage to reach out. This is exactly why Publix is a great place to work! As of now, Publix is a large part of my family, and you may call me Lexi.
Deli Clerk Debby Botteicher
Store #1130, Cumming, Georgia
I like the expression on the faces of the customers and guests after I make them a sandwich on white mountain bread. Before I wrap it, I cut it in half diagonally, and turn one half over, and say, “We love our customers here at Publix.” The sandwich looks like a heart.
Front Service Clerk Zachary Martin
Store #1457, Madeira Beach, Florida
I believe that Publix is a wonderful company to work for. From the first day I was hired, on June 6, 2015, to every day I work, I feel a part of the Publix family. Everyone is so nice and I have made many friends. I look forward to checking my schedule every week to see when I am working. Every time I walk into my store, I feel so welcome and love the opportunity to get to experience the employee and customer side. On the Publix Strategy Map, L3 operate as an agile and highly effective team — shows us that as one Publix, we strive to do our best and work in a great environment. P3 states that we provide premier customer service while we work and communicate with our customers. Lastly, one of the many things great about working at Publix is how clean and organized our store is. Shown in P6, C2 and L5 which all state maintaining food safety, have a clean, pleasant and exciting shopping experience. This shows the effort for Publix to be the best — which Publix has done a great job of for the past 85 years.
Even though I have only been with Publix for eight months, Publix has enriched my life through teaching me valuable workplace skills in communication, safety, positive attitude and team work — to name just a few. Every day I go to work, I tell myself that Publix is where shopping is a pleasure and I help contribute to that one bag and smile at a time. I am extremely excited and thankful that my first job is being part of this wonderful company, I love being a part of the Publix Family and look forward to growing my career with Publix.
