We ROC-ed it! Here are some highlights from our leaders’ presentations.
Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer and Chief Digital Officer Laurie Douglas
On our emerging technology
Technology is playing an increasingly vital role in business, so we’re making necessary investments in new systems and transforming existing systems. This will support our business needs into the future to enable Publix’s continued growth.
“Our top technology priorities center around creating solutions that enhance our customers’ shopping experience, simplify our associates’ work experience and facilitate operational excellence.”
Vice President of Human Resources Marcy Benton
On being a great place to work
Publix’s comprehensive benefits support the holistic well-being and health of associates by providing more flexibility, opportunities for growth and development, and resources to support their financial needs now and in the future.
“Mr. George’s vision for Publix was not just about building a business — it was also about creating a family and a place where associates feel valued and cared for. That vision continues to shape our culture today. We firmly believe that when our associates thrive, our company prospers.”
Senior Vice President of Retail Operations John Goff (now President)
On operational excellence
Mr. George chose to make us all owners of this great company. It’s up to us to protect our brand by improving the execution of operational excellence. We must be who we say we are and who our customers expect us to be.
“Operational excellence is about consistently upholding our high standards and repeating our processes across more than 1,350 stores. When we do, all our customers receive the same incredible shopping experience.”
Vice President of Product Business Development for Fresh Products Brad Oliver
On our prepared foods
When customers are looking for quick and easy lunch or dinner options, we want them to think of Publix rather than a restaurant or traditional competitor. That’s why it’s critical we consistently innovate our product mix to provide convenient, high-quality prepared foods.
“Publix has always strived to provide our customers with the products they know and love while also offering a steady stream of new and interesting items.”
Vice President of Replenishment and Purchasing Support Chris Haake
On our sampling program
Our dynamic shopping experience surprises and delights customers throughout the store. We’re creating more opportunities to interact with our customers by increasing the number of sampling stations, allowing them to sample Publix-brand items from our prepared foods and product innovation process.
“Our in-store product sampling program provides a unique and exciting shopping adventure for our customers to see, smell and taste a variety of new and interesting Publix products.”
Vice President of Product Business Development for Grocery Norman Badger (now Senior Vice President of Retail Operations)
On our weekly ad
Part of being a great merchant means supporting our lobby themes and other key promotions throughout the store by tying in the right ad items. This helps our customers create meal solutions, discover new items or find their favorite products.
“Our aggressive ad plan allows us to offer our customers outstanding values at a lower price than our competitors, especially when we run a BOGO.”
Senior Director of Retail Pharmacy Operations Kathy Leonard
On growing our pharmacy business
As company owners, it’s up to us to build customer loyalty. By investing in associates and developing strong connections across departments, we’re providing our customers with the best shopping experience.
“Mr. George was a visionary leader — from the design of our stores to the many modern conveniences we provide our customers today — and part of his vision was the understanding that by providing health care at Publix, we could better meet the needs of our customers.”
Senior Director of Central Pharmacy Toan Do
On our central fill pharmacy
Central fill opened in Orlando, Florida, in 2015 and serves our Florida and Georgia stores. This central location has helped increase our efficiency and allowed our pharmacy teams to increase their connection with their customers.
“Central fill is a significant benefit to Publix and our operations. To help us take advantage of these efficiencies, our 2nd central fill location is underway near Jacksonville, Florida, and will allow us to serve pharmacies beyond Florida and Georgia.”
Senior Director of Pharmacy Administration Katie Scanlon
On our investments in pharmacy
When we have more genuine, personalized interactions with our customers, we’re helping them achieve better health outcomes as well as support the future growth of our pharmacies.
“For customers who like to shop from the comfort of their home, we are excited to roll out pharmacy delivery through Instacart. This integrated approach creates a more simplified and convenient experience for our customers so they can fulfill their food, over-the-counter and prescription pharmacy needs together.”
