CEO Todd Jones shared how focusing on culture and strategy will ensure our return on ownership (ROO).

While many companies focus solely on financial performance, outcomes or company strategy, Publix believes both culture and strategy are critical for continued success. Why? Because as Todd said, “Our strategy is our culture.”

At Publix, associates are treated with dignity and respect, encouraged to express ideas, and given the opportunity and training to grow within the company. This is our culture. It’s what moves us from saying, “This is my job,” to saying, “This is my company.” And that pride drives what we’re trying to accomplish: our strategy.

When we create a strong culture, associates work together to deliver on our strategy — those difference maker tasks that set us apart from our competitors. We strive harder to provide the premier service for which we are known. We take the time to get to know our customers. We take pride in offering quality products, creating exciting displays and following best practices to create a pleasurable shopping experience. When we put these strategies in place, we ensure our customers say: “Publix helps me get the most out of what food has to offer. And Publix is the brand I trust!”

When culture and strategy come together, we’ve achieved our ROO — our return on ownership. Publix is not just a job, this is our company. When we act as servant leaders to each other, our customers and our communities, we truly become One Publix, united as owners, with One Purpose, to be servant leaders.

Many of our leaders shared successes from the past year, new goals and how to prepare for the future. Read the entire special edition for a recap of the conference.