Meals Specialist Pat Klauck, #675, Oveido, Fla., was only looking for a part-time gig when she joined the deli. A few years later, her store was chosen to pilot the Aprons Simple Meals program, and she was encouraged to interview for the meals clerk position. Not only did she score the position, but when Aprons rolled out companywide, she rose to meals specialist.
“I always enjoyed shopping at Publix. And, after being retired for more than a year, I thought Publix would be a good place to go back to work,” said Pat. “When I joined Publix, I never imagined I’d end up in a specialist role.”
As a meals specialist, Pat travels to other stores to update managers and meals clerks on new Aprons information and train new meals associates. During her visits, she also discusses monthly topics with them and helps them cook and serve Aprons meals. When a meals clerk gets nervous or needs help, Pat always has the right words to share.
“I just tell them to pretend they’re cooking in their own kitchen at home and talking to their neighbor,” said Pat. “My goal is to bring them into their comfort zone.”
When Pat isn’t traveling to other stores, she demonstrates Aprons recipes and does what she enjoys most — helping and talking to customers.
“My favorite thing to do is talk with customers and help them find something to make for dinner,” said Pat. “When a customer tries a sample and tells me they’re going to go home and make it — that’s what I love to hear.”
For customers who may not have a natural knack for cooking, Pat can relate as she wasn’t always comfortable in the kitchen.
“It’s funny; my husband is a natural cook and normally does the cooking at home. But since I’ve started doing Aprons, I’ve been introduced to so many products and cooking methods, I’ve become a thousand times better cook,” said Pat. “I tell my customers all the time I don’t know what I’d do without Aprons recipes.”
Pictured above, Meals Specialist Pat Klauck loves helping customers find easy recipes to prepare at home. During the All-American Burger Celebration, she’ll tell customers how they can spice up burgers. Details are below about this special event.
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Come celebrate America’s favorite entrée, the burger
Aprons Simple Meals will host the All-American Burger Celebration May 23 from 4 – 7 p.m. During this special event, customers will have a chance to try the All-American Burger and bring home great ideas for other varieties of burgers and toppings.
Remember to stop by Publix May 23 and don’t forget to spread the word to your friends, family and customers. No one wants to miss yummy samples and ideas for how to make delicious burgers at home.
