We’ve come a long way since the 1st Publix Food Store opened in Winter Haven, Florida, on Sept. 6, 1930. Now operating across 8 states, we’re the largest employee-owned company in the U.S.

This year, we’re celebrating 95 years of Publix by diving into our history decade by decade. You’ll see a photo timeline and historical highlights while learning more about Mr. George’s lessons along the way.

The 1930s and 1940s

1930: 1st Publix Food Store opened

While working for Piggly Wiggly, Mr. George had big ideas he wanted to share with the store’s newest owner. He waited for the owner to visit Winter Haven, but he never showed. Mr. George then drove all the way to Atlanta to meet with his new boss. However, he was denied a meeting because he was told the owner was tied up in important meetings. But as Mr. George was waiting, he overheard the owner talking about golf. This led Mr. George to open his own store next to the Piggly Wiggly in Winter Haven, vowing never to treat his employees or customers like his new boss had treated him. Opening in September 1930, it was called Publix Food Store.

In 1935, he opened another small store across town but closed both when he opened his dream store, which featured innovations never before seen in a single supermarket.

1940: 1st Publix Super Market opened

This store, called Publix Super Market, opened in 1940. Electric-eye doors, air conditioning, piped-in music and terrazzo floors welcomed customers into Mr. George’s new “food palace.” At his new store, customers shopped for themselves and used shopping carts for the 1st time.

1945: Mr. George purchased the Lakeland Grocery Company

In 1945, Publix headquarters was established in nearby Lakeland when Mr. George purchased the Lakeland Grocery Company, acquiring several All American grocery stores , an office and a warehouse.

Our logos during the 1930s – 1940s

See what our logos have looked like throughout the decades.

Our associates at the 1st Publix Super Market

See what our uniforms have looked like throughout the decades.

Next month, we’ll take a look at the 1950s and learn about the beginnings of our Danish Bakery (now called Publix Bakery), new slogan and service awards.