Each year I look forward to presenting the George W. Jenkins Award because it’s an opportunity to recognize associates who excel at putting in practice the philosophies of Mr. George.

This award is all about Publix’s strategy — focusing on service, quality products, community involvement and associate development — these winners do it all. Through the years, we’ve recognized 112 associates, and it makes me proud to know we have so many more associates who are worthy of winning the award.

From the moment a winner is recognized, they’re held to a higher standard — associates and many others have a new expectation of the winner because they know what Mr. George stood for. For the rest of their careers, they’ll be known for receiving this award.

Associates in their store, district, region, division, department and facility will always be proud of them for winning. When introduced to others, they’ll be recognized as a leader to emulate and an award winner.

As the number of associates who actually met Mr. George continues to dwindle, this award allows us to formally recognize the standards he put in place. To be recognized as someone who embodies everything Mr. George stood for is a privilege and an honor.

Congratulations to this year’s winners and all who came before them.

Ed Crenshaw
CEO