Our special landmark makes every day a party!

In December 1982, the “Hydrocake” water tower was dedicated at the Publix Industrial Center in Lakeland, Florida. Modeled after a Publix birthday cake, the special water tower holds 250,000 gallons of water and stands 145 feet tall. Around the top of the cake are 10 candles, each symbolizing five years of our past success, with an 11th in the middle for all future successes. To this day, the “Hydrocake” is believed to be the only cake-shaped water tower in the world.

But what is the story behind this famous landmark, and how did it come into existence?

According to Publix legend, it was originally designed as a golf ball to honor Mr. George and his love of the game. But Alberta Blanton, wife of then-Publix President Joe Blanton, reminded her husband we are in the grocery business and not the golfing business! Joe went to the bakery, picked out a cake he liked and voila, the cake water tower was born.

Others say there was a debate about where to place it: closer to the dairy plant or bakery plant. So, to compromise, Joe made it in the shape of a cake and moved it closer to the dairy plant.

Wherever the truth lies, the water tower project was very near and dear to our beloved founder. It is said the planning was strictly between Mr. George and Joe. Not only was the “Hydrocake” a way to showcase our wonderful cakes, but it continues to serve as a source of water for our industrial center.

Thirty-eight years after its dedication, our unique water tower still stands as a reminder that every associate gets to take part in the celebration and spirit of Publix. We can have our cake and eat it too! So, during September, when we celebrate Mr. George’s 113th birthday and Publix’s 90th anniversary, be sure to “blow out” the candles next time you drive by the famous “Hydrocake” water tower!