You’ve probably seen or heard Publix’s mission statement before, but you may not know why it exists, where it came from and how it applies today. So, throughout this year, we’re going to take it line by line and reveal the framework behind it. But for now, let’s start at the beginning.

It’s who we are
A company’s mission statement should stand the test of time. It should be clear and concise, but provide a good idea of what’s most important to the company.

Publix’s mission statement is no different. It begins with our overall company goal — to be the premier quality food retailer in the world. Although this phrase may sound like we want to operate stores around the globe, that’s not really the intention. It’s our way of saying we want to be among the best in the world in all we do. And we’re doing a pretty good job of that so far! We’ve been recognized by the Reputation Institute as one of the Most Reputable Companies in the U.S. and on global lists like FORTUNE’s Most Admired companies in the food and drug industry.

It has deep roots
Publix’s mission statement was created based on the values and beliefs on which Mr. George built our company. From the opening statement to each bulleted point, it was written based on what Mr. George believed to be foundational to our company.

The mission statement was first shared with associates and stockholders in the 1992 Annual Report. And we haven’t changed a word of it since.

It guides us as we grow
Publix leaders continually look at our mission to make certain we execute our strategy to support it. But since its inception, our company focus hasn’t swayed from its key principles.

During a speech in 1962, Mr. George said, “When we at Publix look ahead, we are also glancing back to be sure that nothing we do — no new device we employ, no new design we conceive — departs from our original principle, which is to make Publix, in every way possible, the market where shopping is a pleasure.”

As long as we remain focused on the mission, shopping at Publix will be a pleasure for every customer. And it’ll be a great place to work for us, too!

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