Front Service Clerk David Barnie moved to Florida from Scotland just over a year ago and started working at #352, Lakeland, Florida, a few months later. And even though he may not be an owner just yet, he already has a good understanding of what living the Publix mission is all about.

He believes Mr. George entrusted us to take care of the company by making us company owners. Being devoted to the highest standards of stewardship for our stockholders is part of our mission and it’s a responsibility David doesn’t take lightly.

Here’s what living this part of the Publix mission means to him and why he does it.

“Getting a job at Publix has been one of the best things to happen to me in Florida! It’s a privilege to work for such a great company.

“Publix does everything it can to make sure its customers aretreated with legendary service. The company also treats its associates very well. The fact that we can take part in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan [PROFIT Plan]and receive stock is wonderful. This provides me a real sense of responsibility and ownership in the fantastic Florida-based establishment I work for.

“Since working here, I have received four free subs [My Publix, My Part recognition cards] for receiving customer compliments and several coupons from our president to sample Publix’s outstanding products. I love getting to know my customers, making them smile and laugh, and anticipating all their needs so they keep coming back to their local Publix.

“Come rain or shine, whether I’m pushing carts in the parking lot, bagging at the register or helping a customer, I always take Mr. George’s advice, ‘Never let making a profit stand in the way of doing the right thing.’ Doing the right thing is a philosophy I can live my life by and what makes Publix the successful company it is.”

David is a great example of how our associates believe in and live Publix’s mission. Our company is strong, vibrant and growing because our associates are passionate about doing the right thing for Publix — because we own it. And making us company owners was all part of the genius of Mr. George.

Keep an eye out for more articles on Publix’s mission statement in Publix News or visit corporate.publix.com > About Publix.