On July 15, 2017, associates at #1566, Glen Allen — our first Virginia store — welcomed our newest fans. Whether it was tasting a deli sub and bakery Key lime pie, getting to know our proud Virginia team or simply taking it all in, customers were eager to help us celebrate this milestone in Publix history.
Customers find familiar brand in new store
Virginia shoppers are accustomed to the Ukrop’s brand. The bakery offers Rainbow Cookies, White House Rolls, Chocolate Fudge Pie and Lemon Chess Pie, and the deli offers grab & go sandwiches and soups.
Ukrop’s has humble beginnings like Publix. In 1937, Joe Ukrop opened his first store in Richmond. As more stores opened, Ukrop’s customers regarded every visit as an experience. The Ukrop’s name meant high standards for customer service, a passion for wholesome foods, and giving back to the community.
In 2010, Ukrop’s retail locations were sold to Martin’s — some of the stores Publix purchased in July 2016 — but the manufacturing business continued operating separately to provide ready-to-heat and eat meals and sides, baked goods, and desserts. Because of this history and customers’ connection to the brand, we wanted to make sure we continued their offerings when and where it made sense to our Virginia customers.
Publix helps customers save while shopping
Cashier Steve Goldstein, #1546, Weaverville, North Carolina, helped customers learn how they can save while shopping at Publix. Many commented the best part was that no loyalty card was needed. He said of the crowd, “You’d think it was Thanksgiving with tons of giveaways out front!”
Customers in our existing states are used to the Compare and Save signage, which touts how much shoppers can save each week by purchasing standard grocery items at Publix compared to local competitors.
And to introduce Publix brand products to Virginia customers, we will encourage them to participate in the Store Brand Challenge. The challenge promotes the Publix brand, which is priced lower than national brands with quality as good — or better — than national brands.
Associates share their thoughts on opening day
New associates quickly caught the Publix spirit and passed it on to customers. “I’ve been in the business for about 10 years. I heard about Publix, did some research and decided this is the place I need to be,” said Meat Cutter Bryan Sacoarras. “I love the atmosphere, everybody has a great attitude, and everybody works together. It’s a great place to be.”
Assistant Produce Manager Daniel Dunbar transferred to #1566 from #215, Palm Bay, Florida. “Virginia will be amazing for us,” he said of his relocation. “My wife is very excited about the seasons, and we’ve already started helping out in the community. Our family will be actively involved helping [St. Joseph Church] start a hydroponic and aquaponics garden.”
Assistant Customer Service Manager Armando Garcia, #1589, Glen Allen, helped prepare the store for opening day. “To be chosen to start a new market is not only an honor, it’s exciting as well!” he said. “I always share Mr. George’s quote with new hires: ‘Starting tomorrow, Publix will be a little better, or maybe not quite as good, because of you.’ With our team in place, Publix in Virginia will definitely be better.”
Around the store
Virginia loves Publix! Watch as customers and associates catch the Publix spirit as we open the doors to our first Virginia store on Publix News Live.
This could be you!
Publix plans to open more stores across Virginia in towns like Bristol, Colonial Heights, Fredericksburg, Henrico, Mechanicsville, Midlothian and Richmond. If you’re interested in joining the Virginia team on this exciting journey, complete a New Market – Expression of Interest form on PASSport > Personal > Career and Self Development > Virginia.
ALSO: Take a look at Family Night at #1566.
