Produce Manager Kajun Arnold, #215, Palm Bay, Florida, believes that providing premier customer service means more than completing a task — it means showing up for others.

Every week, Kajun brings his Nintendo Switch to his store so one of Publix’s youngest customers, Liam, can enjoy playing video games while shopping with his mom. Liam, who has special needs, has accompanied his mom to Kajun’s store for years, and the produce manager always looks forward to his weekly interactions with the youngster.

One week, Kajun realized he wasn’t scheduled for a Monday when he knew Liam would be there.

“I knew I couldn’t let him down,” said Kajun. “I drove to the store and dropped off my Switch so that Liam’s routine wouldn’t be interrupted.”

Liam was able to have his video game time that day while his mom shopped.

For Kajun, the decision to go the extra mile came naturally.

“Building community by connecting with other people is one of the best parts of this job,” said Kajun. “If I can make something better or help someone have a better day, I want to do everything in my power to make it happen.”

Mr. George often said, “We are not only in the grocery business, we’re in the people business.” Kajun’s actions exemplify this through his dedication to engaging with customers and exceeding expectations. Because of his commitment to values like these, Kajun was awarded the Mr. George Gold Coin Award.

“Mr. George laid the foundation for Publix culture,” said Kajun. “It’s truly an honor to be given this award named after him and continue his legacy.”

Take a moment to read about other Mr. George Gold Coin Award recipients.

The Mr. George Gold Coin Award is given to associates who embrace the Publix culture and provide premier service the way Mr. George himself would have. Receiving a gold coin means you’ve made a real difference in the lives of others by going above and beyond. Associates can become eligible for a gold coin by receiving praise from customers and associates through customer care and social media, which reviews each submission based on established criteria and guidelines. To recommend an associate for consideration, email the story details to goldcoin@publix.com.