Because innovation has been part of our culture from the beginning, we’ve been able to find new ways to treat our customers like royalty.

Mr. George brought innovation to Publix in a variety of ways — from wide aisles and air conditioning to electric-eye doors. These features were not things you found in a grocery store, but Publix implemented them. And throughout our history, we continued to implement new ideas like opening in-store pharmacies. Today, innovation comes in ways like in-store pickup and grocery delivery or Aprons Meal Kits and Club Publix. All of these were developed to help provide friendly service and royal treatment.

While we often think of innovation as inventing something new, we shouldn’t limit our thinking. Innovation can be found in the new application of technologies and products already in existence. For example, the electric-eye doors Mr. George used were something he saw at Penn Station in New York City. He knew that this new style of door would add convenience for his customers, so he set out to make it part of his new store.

Today, we see this type of innovation in the continuous improvement ideas you suggest to better serve our customers or operate more efficiently. When you think of ways we can improve, we want to hear from you, whether it’s using our continuous improvement process or talking with your manager. Having an environment where we can share ideas is part of what makes Publix great.

As we celebrate our 90th year, join me in continuing our commitment to sharing ideas that will carry us into the future.

Thanks for all you do.

Read more messages from Todd.