Something about the holidays always sparks nostalgia. Families gather around the table and share stories of years passed, talk about where their traditions began and reminisce about the way things used to be. But while some things change, it’s comforting to know there are many things that stay the same.

The holidays have always been a wonderful time to be a Publix associate. The stores are alive with the hustle and bustle of customers shopping for the perfect components for their holiday meals — or stopping in for that one forgotten ingredient — and there’s an overall feeling of cheer among everyone. Associates look forward to giving even more of themselves to help make the holidays better for others, and all of us get teary-eyed watching our holiday commercials.

As you take a look back at some of the holiday messages from 50 years ago, you’ll see that while we’ve grown and evolved in many ways since 1963 — the things that are most important haven’t changed.

History comes alive in Publix News

The Publix culture is the foundation of our great company. And, in 2014, Publix News will do its part to perpetuate our culture by sharing more Publix history with you. We begin by taking you inside the Polk History Center for a peek at a new exhibit that represents our rich history and culture. Don’t miss this month’s Publix News Live!

The December 1963 issue of Publix News was 28 pages. It highlighted news and events from around the company and even included poems and jokes.

The editorial staff extended their best wishes to associates as they posed for this holiday greeting that appeared on the back cover of the issue.

The tradition of including a message from the CEO in Publix News began long ago, when Mr. George used to write letters to associates. This one, from the December 1963 issue, details all that Publix had to be thankful for at the time — the same things we can be grateful for today.

This holiday ad appeared in a December 1963 issue of The Lakeland Ledger. While our prices have changed, our commitment to providing quality products to our deserving customers hasn’t.

Did you know?

An associate prepares Christmas bonus checks. In 1965, Publix paid more than $876,000 in Christmas bonuses to its nearly 5,000 associates.

• Publix used to hold a holiday talent show each year.
• Mr. George used to serve as the office “Santa” by handing out gifts for the associate gift exchange.
• Associate Appreciation Visits began informally as a holiday tradition, when Mr. George and other company leaders visited stores to show their gratitude for the hard work of associates.
• The first holiday bonuses were given to associates in the 1950s.