When Fresh Kitchen Sanitor Phia Thor moved to Florida, he’d never heard of Publix. Phia, a California native, came to Lakeland 5 years ago with his parents in search of a lower cost of living and because of his parents’ health.

Phia’s family is originally from Laos, and his parents grew up as farmers in the mountains of their native country. Like many Hmong people, his family helped Americans during the Vietnam War and immigrated to the U.S.

“Now they’re retired, but they’re still out farming in their backyard,” Phia said.

After moving to Lakeland, a lot of people told Phia about Publix and our good reputation. He applied, and more than 4 years later, he’s happy he did. Currently, he works the second shift at the Lakeland Fresh Kitchen, cleaning and sanitizing the facility to ensure the products produced by his co-workers meet our highest standards for food safety and product quality.

When asked what he likes about working at Publix, he spoke quickly about how he appreciates the training he receives. He would like to eventually move into a supervisor position and knows his managers are willing to help him meet that goal.

He also believes Publix’s core philosophies match his values and ideas.

“They blend with my attitude,” he said.

His manager agrees.

“Phia always has a good attitude while working with his team and takes time to help others without being asked,” said Fresh Kitchen Team Leader Bryce Peterson. “They like to call on him because of his knowledge of the department, and they know he’s a good team player.”

And what’s Phia’s answer to the most important question? His favorite Publix product is our deli chicken wings.