Opening a new store is no small feat. It takes thousands of hours of preparation, construction and training for the big day. But what exactly does it take to get there? It takes a village, and our real estate team is one of many involved in opening a new store.

“Every store, we feel, is the best that can be built,” said our founder, Mr. George. “And yet we know that even as that front door is unlocked on opening day, there are new innovations on the drawing board for the next store. That’s one of the things that really makes this an exciting business. It’s ever changing; it’s ever challenging. There is always the opportunity to grow.”

It is with this spirit that our real estate team approaches every new store.

Site selection

Our real estate managers start by reviewing their defined territories. They research and analyze data to determine which markets are underserved, and they identify opportunities for a new store.

Once research is done, it’s time to find the perfect location. The team surveys sites in our target area that are suitable for a brand-new Publix. After a site is selected, a decision must be made to lease or purchase the site. Once this is determined, real estate managers negotiate the rent or purchase price. All this research and preparation goes into a package presented to the Publix real estate committee and concludes with a vote on the new site.

Construction

Now, it’s time to build. Our real estate managers partner with the construction team throughout the building process. From groundbreaking to adding shiny new check stands, they monitor the process and update their timeline as necessary.

Opening

When construction is complete, the fun begins. New and current associates are welcomed inside the store to help prepare for the grand opening. Tags are hung. Shelves are stocked. Products are prepared. Check stands are cleaned and polished. Bags are filled in the bag racks. And the store is ready to open!

While our 1st customers are walking into a brand-new store, the real estate team is already planning the next Publix locations.