Since the 1st Publix store, we’ve been providing premier service and being responsible citizens in our communities. With this focus, it’s no wonder Publix grew from 1 small store in Winter Haven, Florida, to more than 1,350 stores in 8 states.
Our founder, Mr. George, said, “I truly believe the future holds before us such fantastic opportunities it is almost beyond belief.”
Mr. George’s vision of growth continues today. But do you know how many of these pivotal milestones happened in February?
Feb. 11, 1951: Our 1st warehouse and corporate office
In 1945, Mr. George purchased the Lakeland Grocery Company, which included a small office and warehouse. By 1950, our growing company needed a larger facility. On Feb. 11, 1951, the new 125,000-square-foot warehouse and corporate office in Lakeland, Florida, was ready for business. Adorned with the same art deco architecture of our early stores, the new building was the most modern facility of its day. Today, it’s known as the George Jenkins building.
Feb. 5, 2009: Our 1,000th store
Mr. George’s goal of expanding never wavered. In 2009, we reached an incredible milestone. Publix’s 1,000th store, #1239, opened in St. Augustine, Florida, on Feb. 5, 2009. That achievement was momentous, since only 5 grocery chains at the time had that many U.S. locations. The opening, which attracted the Florida Historical Society, was met with great fanfare. It’s been 15 years since we welcomed our 1,000th store into the Publix family, and today, we have more than 1,350 stores in 8 states, most recently adding Kentucky.
Feb. 26, 2014: Our move into North Carolina
On Feb. 26, 2014, we opened our 1st store, #1442, in Charlotte, North Carolina. This location was the 1st store to open in the newly created Charlotte Division. Over the past 10 years, we have experienced tremendous growth, with the Charlotte Division now spanning 6 states: South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky and parts of Georgia.
Take a tour of our photo timeline to learn more about Publix’s history.x
