For our associates, it’s about being there

From Publix’s early beginnings, Mr. George stressed the importance of being there. He frequently traveled to stores and support facilities to visit with his associates. Each year in July, leaders from around the company continue this tradition as part of Be There Day. The event officially began in 2015 as part of our 85th anniversary, with leaders working with associates to learn more about them and how they contribute to Publix. Check out what these leaders had to say about their recent visits.

“I wanted to get additional perspective from the store on what they’re doing every day and how we can better support them. I was in the bakery, and we gave out a lot of cookies! I learned how to operate the touchscreen system and our process for adding bread into inventory. It was good to see what our associates do on the frontlines and how they serve our customers every day. Next year, I think I may brave the deli!”

— Director of Construction Mike Ser (pictured above with Bakery Manager Vanessa Giles at #1567, Winter Garden, Florida)

“I am always interested in working alongside our associates and learning about departments I haven’t had much opportunity to work in. It helps me gain perspective about the environment and the nature of the work, so my team can create the best training solutions possible for our retail associates. Our associates are very passionate about what they do for Publix, and it makes me proud to work for such a great company. It’s inspiring!”

— Director of Training Development Angela Jordan visited #1533, New Bern, North Carolina

“I was fortunate enough to meet Mr. George at the grand opening of #434, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. He spent several minutes with me discussing the importance of school and working hard, and he explained that if I did these things, I would be successful. This conversation lives with me, and I feel I have a responsibility to pass that on. My favorite part of Be There Day is creating relationships with associates.”

— Charlotte Division Customer Service Retail Coordinator Josh Decker (pictured above at #1485, Rock Hill, South Carolina.

“We rely on our retail associates to be there for our customers every day. I think it’s important for Publix leaders to be in our stores every week. While working with Erik   at #1610, Orlando, Florida, it was evident the future of Publix is in great hands. He demonstrated the importance of our quality standards, having superb product knowledge and providing new product recommendations for our customers.”

— Director of Corporate Quality Assurance Michael Roberson

“Since I’ve never worked alongside the DSD function, my day shadowing DSD Inventory Clerk Christy Haney was eye-opening. I have the utmost respect for the importance of her role, especially when you think of the coordination between our vendors, the inventory function and our grocery team. It was impressive, and I’m thankful Publix people create that success every day, at every store. It’s good to be Publix!”

—Director of Labor Relations Mark Codd visited #1621, Chattanooga, Tennessee

“The key takeaway from my visit was obtaining a greater appreciation for the hard work exhibited by our retail associates to serve our customers. I was excited to share what I learned with my team and how we can continue to do our part to help those associates.”

—Director of Warehousing Kyle Davis visited #581, Miami